How to Use a Chore List to Empower Your Child

You have decided to use a chore list to encourage family responsibility. Good for you. Your child will learn the importance of responsibility, gain confidence and feel he is an important part of the family. Even if he complains about chores, enforcing the idea that everyone in the family plays an important role in making a household work is a lesson that lasts a lifetime. A well-structured chore list is a great way to keep things organized for everybody.

How do you have a chore list without it looking like the enemy reminder of something your child doesn't want to do? Here are some ways to empower your child with a chore list.

• Make it look friendly. Design the list with your child, or make it on the computer with cute graphics to represent each chore. Use bright colors, readable fonts and make sure the information is clear.
• Have a place for stickers or stamps when the chore is completed. Allow your child to apply the stickers or stamps when the job is done for a sense of accomplishment. Positive reinforcement is important.
• Consider a reward for getting the chore done without reminders. Perhaps a completed list for the week can earn some special time with you. Rewards don't have to be monetary. Consider playing a favorite game, going out to lunch or making cookies together.
• Make the list together with your child so she knows what's expected and buys in. Allow her to select what day to do what chore, and what might be the reward for a job well done.
• Include siblings on the same chore list. Decide if trades are allowed, and under what circumstances; for instance, both siblings have to agree to the trade. Alternately, you can create a rotating chore list that distributes less-pleasant tasks, such as taking out the garbage, among different members of the family. Breaking up the routine can make it easier to get chores done. 
• Make expectations clear. Should chores be done before homework? Before dinner or after? Does it matter to you? If the chore is not done, what is the consequence? If you have to remind your child three times to do a chore, is there a consequence? Keep things clear and, as much as possible, keep expectations positive.
• Remember to praise and thank your child for a job well done.