Household Chores

Anyone who knew my mother, knew she ran a tight ship in our household. Friends and family who visited our home often joked that she ran a boot camp, because my sister and I were taught at a very early age about household chores. We were told that helping around the house was our way of contributing to the family, along with doing well in school. I believe I was 6 years old when I began doing chores; my job was to set and clear the dinner table every night, wipe down and Windex the glass top. Every Saturday (and I do mean every Saturday), my sister and I cleaned our entire house from top to bottom. We weren't allowed to watch TV, play outside or visit with friends until the house was sparkling.

Growing up I resented the Saturday drill, and envied my friends who barely lifted a finger around their houses. And yet, now that I'm a parent, I can see the value in teaching this type of responsibility to kids. My kids are growing up with far more privileges than I ever did, and I worry about them developing a sense of entitlement or ingratitude. Now that Cruz is 6 years old, we've started implementing regular chores for him. They are pretty simple and straightforward:

• Make bed every morning
• Set the table for dinner every night
• Clear your and Lucas' dishes from the table every night
• Put away toys every night
• Every Sunday, empty garbages throughout the house

At this stage, Cruz mostly thinks the chores are fun, especially changing the garbages (go figure!). And because Lucas wants to do everything his big brother does, he ends up helping out too - win win!

Teamwork emptying garbages

Getting utensils on tippy toes

Pulling placemats

Setting the table together

Vacuuming

I think my mom would be proud that I am teaching my boys in the same fashion that she taught me, albeit I'm not quite as strict! It also makes me feel good that I am teaching them some life skills and beginning what I hope is a foundation of responsibility and hard work.