Image by epSos.de via Flickr Having kids that help with chores is every parent's dream. The most important thing to know is that responsibility should be a way of life. If children are raised to be thoughful in the little things then responsibility will kick in when it is time for chores. Kids are often sent the message that what they do is not important, they exist solely to be loved and taken care of. A child who has everything done for them and who is given everything they desire, without working for it, will never see the need to be responsible but there is a way to turn it … [Read more...]
Should parents assist children with gender identity?
Image via Wikipedia Pictures of Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitts daughter Shiloh have been the talk of many magazines. It seems that the celebrity couple allows the girl to dress as a boy and swim only in trunks rather than a bathing suit. The question becomes is this helpful or harmful, should parents assist a child in forming gender identity or allow the child to choose what feels right? This can be a difficult subject and the famous parents are probably not the only ones struggling with it. What is the duty of parents? To stand by until children ask for assistance or to … [Read more...]
When to Start Teaching About Chores
If you are trying to decide when you should start teaching your children about chores, now is probably a good time. Children are really never too young to start learning about chores. Of course, a 6 month old can’t put away his toys, but he can watch you do so. Starting early doesn’t ensure that your child will always be agreeable about completing his chores. Requiring your children to participate in the upkeep and maintenance of their home is something you will probably have to work on the entire time they live there. However, it certainly doesn’t hurt them to learn early. It … [Read more...]
Dividing Household Chores
Balancing household chores is tricky for many families. Even in a more traditional household, where one parent works and the other stays home, it’s hard. Families where both parents work may have an even more difficult time divvying up household chores since bother parents are away most of the day. It’s easy to let the issue come between you or to simple give up nagging your spouse and just do the chores yourself, but neither is a very good way to deal with the situation. Instead, try to figure out a way to divide chores that will keep both partners at least moderately happy. The … [Read more...]