"With every job that must be done there is an element of fun."
Well, Mary Poppins, you try telling that to my kiddos, who, try as they might, have not been able to get their beds to make themselves at the snap of a finger. I too have tried that particular trick on the dishes and laundry and can safely say that no matter how big my smile, the result of snapping fingers is a big, fat nothing.
Yet, I do believe that getting stuff done around the house can be fun. For myself, I've implemented a few techniques that have had relatively positive results for me. This includes playing boogie-worthy music in the kitchen (downside being that the boogying becomes a distraction), timing myself (downside being my frustration when I realize spaghetti sauce has emblazoned itself on the microwave, and I won't be beating that timer any time soon), and talking to my mom/sister/friends on the phone (downside being that my Bluetooth has disappeared into the bowels of my mini van, and the cell phone doesn't fare so well after being dropped in the toilet).
But I have kids! Yes! Free labor (do not tell DHS I said so). Of course, two kids under the age of four do not good helpers make. I mean, yes, they like to help, but I'm going to be honest and tell you they're not so good at it. The only thing my preschooler wants to Windex is my toddler, so I've decided to keep their chores strictly to picking up. But that didn't keep me from hunting down ways to get kids interested--and even excited--about lending a helping hand.
1. Chart it. Visit Goal For It, where you can design a cute, free chore chart. Not sure how to get the kids going on it? Erin Griffith, Edmond mom of four kiddos, gave me the following helpful advice:
"Our oldest three kids have "Responsibility & Commitment" charts. THEY choose three age appropriate, task oriented chores (i.e., read book, make bed, empty dishwasher, feed dogs, brush teeth, practice instrument, etc.) and WE choose two character oriented (shared toys, serve others, positive attitude, be helpful, etc.). At the end of the day, we place magnets according to performance. These charts never have to be perfect, but rather, we are trying to instill a strong work ethic and sense of family responsibility. They also serve as a good tool in earning their weekly activities."
2. Ready, set, go! My timer idea is not original, as I found out while searching online and conversing with Griffith, the super mom of four. Kids love to compete, especially when prizes are involved. You don't have to pit them against each other; just give your kids a goal with a prize in mind. And prizes don't have to be big deals either. Ice cream, popsicles, or "we get to go outside and play family basketball when this is done" is all that's required.
3. Do it together, and don't forget to take a break. Nothing says family like accomplishing things together while having a fun time. So turn up the music or talk while you do dishes, fold laundry, or clean windows. And don't overdo it! From my own experience growing up, keeping up with chores throughout the week felt so much better (and doable) than a four-hour cleaning extravaganza on Saturday morning. Remind those kids if you can get the work done during the week, they will have more free time available for the weekend. This is a lesson that will stick with them for years to come.
Want more ideas? Check out a great ehow.com article here.
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