5 Simple Tips for Summer Chores
I am constantly looking for ways to simplify and work smarter, not harder. Summertime is a welcome, cherished time in our home, but it's admittedly a weird time now. We, like you & your family, have been living in a global pandemic. We have been under "stay at home" orders for two months. While here in SC, some of the restrictions are lifting, we can safely say this is not a normal summer.
That's why I wanted to share with you some tips we use here in our home to help summer time be pleasurable for everyone. Now, more than ever we have a chance to teach our children some life skills that will serve them in the present and the future, as well as help our homes run a little smoother. I mean who doesn't want that!
I have developed a simple, customizable chore chart that takes the guess work out of what your children's daily agenda will be. This chart allows them something to reference to know what's expected each day. It can also be a way to encourage responsibility and earn rewards.
Here are some quick tips to customizing your chore chart.
Identify your homes "pain points" or problem areas. For example, one hallway in our home always stays dirtier since everyone tracks in and out of that side of the house. So, one chore for our home is to vacuum that hallway. That is off my list to worry about and I know it's getting cleaned. Win-Win!
Keep the chores quick and easy. Take it from a momma that can accidentally over complicate, just keep it simple. We increase our chances of the work getting completed well when the chore is quick and simple.
Keep the chores age appropriate. Truthfully, those kiddos can do more than we give them credit for. Young elementary school age children can empty the dishwasher with help. Preschoolers can wipe down a table or counter top. Click here for my Pinterest board for more age appropriate ideas.
Show them first what your expectations are for each chore, then make sure they demonstrate it back to you. They might not know that you want the toothpaste wiped out of the bottom of the sink until you show them.
Praise and Grace. Praise when the job is well done, give grace when its mediocre. Rewards may be fun outings, allowance or treats. Whatever works for your family!
Click here to get your free, customizable chore chart.
Love, B
