Are your children always asking for new toys, shoes and other things? Kids don’t always understand the true value of money. Because we want the best for our children, we don’t want to simply give them everything they ask for, every time. Of course, this can cause tension, especially when they have their eye on something they want. Introducing you child to chores and earning allowance is an easy way to teach kids about money. It can help them learn how to manage their money while still young. Of course, this means deciding what they can do to earn money by helping out around the home. Here are a few ideas for introducing chores and earning allowance.
Chores and Earning Allowance
There are probably about as many different opinions on allowance as there are parents. Regardless of where you fall on the spectrum of opinions about compensating kids for chores, clear communication is essential. Children need to know what is expected, and if allowance is involved, what is possible.
Use a Fun Chore Chart
Getting kids to do jobs around the house doesn’t have to be difficult. You can use a fun chore chart to list the chores that need to be done and even teach your kids some great cleaning hacks to speed up for the process. You can download these free printable chore charts to use. You can use one chart for multiple kids, or use one for each child. There are 6 different colored background options plus a printer friendly black and white option.
You can print a new copy each week, or if you’re like me, you love the convenience of laminating and reusing things, so you can use it over and over again.
Scotch Thermal Laminator Combo Pack
Amazon Basics Thermal Laminating 3mm Plastic Laminator Sheets
Don’t have a printer, or want a chore chart with more interactive elements? Magnetic boards, stickers and wipeable pens are great for customizing chore charts and giving the little ones something to play around with. Or having a wall-hung chore chart with pockets is a fun way to divide tasks. You can use a ready-made hanging organiser for this and number the pockets. In each pocket place a task and a treat or reward. Then let your kids each choose a number at a time, allowing them to take the task first then the reward for doing it.
Melissa & Doug Responsibility ChartMagnetic Dry Erase Chore ChartCustomizable Pocket Chore System
Make tasks easy to manage
When creating a chore chart, be sure to assign age appropriate chores. Children need to be old enough to understand how to use the household tools appropriately. If chemicals are involved, they need to be mature enough to use them correctly.
Younger children may be able to put their toys away, use a dusting mitt to dust shelves, or feed a pet. Older children may be able to vacuum, load or unload the dishwasher, wash their own laundry, or mop the floor.
Giving your kids lightweight and easy-to-use tools will simplify completing their chores safely. Checking kitchen mop reviews to find one with an adjustable handle that can be shortened is a great idea. A microfiber mop head that works without chemicals is also ideal. Swapping a heavy upright vacuum for a lightweight stick vacuum will make it easier for them to maneuver.
Finally, break tasks up into easy-to-manage pieces, so your children find them more palatable. For example, asking them to vacuum or mop one room instead of the whole house. Make it more fun to do by playing music to work to or scheduling break times with tasty snacks.
Reward hard work
Although you’ll be giving your children allowance in return for their hard work, it’s never a bad idea to reward children in other ways too.
Physical rewards such as stickers are an easy win, but other rewards such as special privileges, extra screen time, and days out are also good for encouraging kids to do more.
You could also offer bonuses for completing tasks on time or for finishing extra tasks, and don’t forget that lots of praise and gratitude can make kids feel more valued and loved. It can also boost their confidence and give them a sense of achievement.
