Helping out round home

All children can help out around home – it's a brilliant way for them to feel needed and learn about responsibility.

Your child's help could be as simple as going outside to play when you have tasks to get done. Or they could be responsible for a specific chore. Even if you have to help them all the way, it's worth it for the future.

Think about what your child is able to achieve, at their age. If they're about five or older, they may want to help choose the jobs they do.

Helpful tips

• Start early so your child learns that your family works together.
• Keep jobs matched to your child's age.
• Show them exactly what to do, and be ready to remind them.
• Try to make it fun stuff, like sweeping the floor or hosing down the path.
• If appropriate, let them choose. A kitchen chart may help. If you have more than one child, rotating jobs may be a good idea.
• Give lots of encouragement. And more! You could put on fun music during chore time, or give a treat when the job's done. Remember, your child won't get it all perfect.
• Brothers and sisters working together can be a good way for them to learn teamwork.
• You might also want to think about having a family chores checklist.