Using Chore Charts

Chore charts are something many people use to help keep their home clean, and their family all participating in the process. The following is a look at using chore charts:

Why you should use chore charts:

Chore charts are great to use because they are an equalizer. If one person typically does far more than others, or far less, a chore chart is going to help get things on even footing. They also keep things front and center. Many families post their chore charts on the refrigerator, for example, which means that everyone sees it and has a constant reminder that they need to contribute, and what things they should be doing to do so. Chore charts mean a more organized family.

Pros and cons of chore charts:

Pros:

Easy to make
Low cost
Clear
Convenient

Cons:

People lose interest fast
Not always enforceable
Do not account for variables well

Making your chore charts more effective:

To make your chore charts more effective it is smart to start by asking yourself the following questions:

1. How old are my children? Age plays a big role in determining what kind of chore chart is going to work best for your family. A younger family is going to see mom doing most of the work, with the kids doing their own things, like putting away their clothes or toys. An older family can help carry the load more evenly. The age also determines how the chart is set up. A family of teens can use simple lists. A family of toddlers may need pictures, colorful diagrams, stickers for keeping track, or some such.

2. Rotate them. If your family thrives on consistency, then stick with the same chores for a week. If they don’t, then rotate them on a daily basis. Find a system that works for your family through trial and error if need be, but then stick to it. Make rules that go with it, such as no work or play until the chores are done. That way your teenager can’t use their job outside the home as an excuse for not doing their jobs inside the home. Be firm, and you will see results.

3. Put it in view. If you post it where it is easily seen, then it is hard to forget that they have chores to do, and excuses are less likely to crop up. So, post it in a visible spot, and remind your children each morning that they can’t play until their chores are done.

4. Attach a reward system of some kind. One of the best ways to make your chore charts work is to have rewards. This can be done simply by attaching your weekly allowance to whether or not they do their chores. It can be more elaborate where they earn tokens, or coupons, or something that can be cashed in for prizes, outings, toys, or similar. Or, the rewards can be praise. The idea is that kids do better when there is something on the line for them to lose. If they only get half their allowance if they only do half their chores, they are more likely to do all of their chores. However, you have to be firm about it.