7 Reasons Why the Kids Are Not Doing Their Chores

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Trying to figure out why the kids are neglecting their chores? Learn 7 reasons why the kids are not doing their chores, how to fix it ASAP, and helpful tips to make getting the chores done easily.

Chores are a great way to teach kids responsibility, how to take care of things, and important life skills. No one wants their child to move out and not know how to do basic chores like sweeping and mopping the floor or laundry. Plus knowing how to do the basics will help kids when they get their first job.

7 Reasons Why the Kids Are Not Doing Their Chores

First of all, they don’t know what chores they are supposed to do.

A chore chart can fix this problem. There are tons of chore chart downloads available on Pinterest. Or if you want an easy customized one, then follow my tutorial to create a simple chore chart in Google Docs.

• Tip: Hang chore charts in an easy to see spot so everyone can see it. For example, we hang our charts in the dining room.

Secondly, they don’t understand why they need to do chores.

This was a big one in my family. If the kids just do not understand why they have to clean their room or take out the trash, like my kids, consider having a family meeting. Then, explain why each chore has to be done and which chores each family member is responsible.

• Tip: Create chore charts for each family member including the adults. This way the kids have a visual reminder of what everyone is responsible for.

Thirdly, they don’t know what is expected for each chore.

Take the time to show the kiddos how to do each chore properly. For more challenging chores, a chore checklist will help make sure each item is done. Follow along with my tutorial for creating a customized chore checklist in Google Docs.

• Tip: Keep the checklist near each chore. For example, I hang the bathroom checklist inside the bathroom cabinet door so it’s easy to reference.

Next, the chores are not age appropriate.

This can mean the chores are too easy for your older kids or too hard for your younger kids. To alleviate this problem research chores for your child’s age group. Washing the dishes might be too hard for your 8 year old but maybe he could dry the dishes or put them away.

Also, talk to your kids about what kinds of chores they think they can do. You might be surprised at the chores they want to do.

Another, they have too much on their plates.

Kids today are under a lot of pressure. If your kid has a full plate it is probably time to evaluate their commitments. For instance, if they have homework nightly and sports practice and a bunch of chores each night something is going to not get done. So, evaluate the need for chores to be done every night. Consider alternating chores between multiple kids or even only requiring 1-2 chores each night.

Also, let your kids have a say in when and how often they do chores. For example, the kids and I clean bathrooms on Tuesday mornings during the summer. But when school started they suggested moving the cleaning of their bathroom to Saturday.

Also, they don’t have the proper tools to do each chore.

You probably have proper adult-size cleaning tools. However, those are usually too big and bulky for a kid to use. Getting a set of smaller versions of those cleaning tools will help the kiddos get their chores done. For instance, a lobby broom and dustpan are the perfect size for kids to use. Another option would be a hand held or stick vacuum because they are small and lightweight.

Finally, there is no reward system in place.

A rewards system does not have to be complicated or costly. Basically, they get something for doing X and they lose something for not doing X. All you have to do is clearly establish the rules for them.

For example, we use a point base system. But you could use a system for extra time on the computer, tablet, or gaming system. Similarly, you could base their allowance or weekend bedtimes off of the completion of chores. Just make sure you clearly lay out a system with the established rules so everyone understands.

Hopefully, this has helped you figure out why the kids are neglecting their chores, how to fix it ASAP, and gave you some useful tips to make getting the chores done easily.

Have a great day!

Brandi

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