>I grew up having chores. They were divided up – one of us cleaned the bathrooms, swept and mopped all the floors. The other vacuumed and dusted the house. My sister and I switched every week. Per my mother’s directive, all chores had to be completed by midnight on Saturday. When we were little, chores were done on Saturday mornings. When we were older, she didn’t care when they were done, as long as the chores were done before Sunday morning.
I believe that Charlie should have chores as well. He lives in this house and helps to make the mess. He can learn how to help keep it clean. It is part of being a family. These chores are separate from his allowance; he doesn’t get paid to do his chores. Let’s face it – it is easier to get these kind of habits established when kids are young, want to help, and think it’s fun!
So this summer I taught Charlie how to clean his bathroom. I mixed plain white vinegar with warm water in a squirt bottle. He loves squirting the bathroom counter top and wiping it down with a sponge. I also showed Charlie how to clean the outside of the toilet. Charlie also wants to scrub the tub so I let him. I then go back later on and clean the inside the toilet and tub with the stronger cleaners I won’t let him use yet.
We do this almost every Saturday morning. I just haven’t gotten the hang of it every Saturday like Mom did. Usually we have soccer or other activities going on Saturday mornings early.
Charlie’s other chores include putting up the silverware, pots, and plastic ware from the dishwasher. He also sets the table for dinner and helps clear the table. I want Charlie to make the bed in the morning but am not having much success in that area. Hubby is in charge of the morning routine since I’m at work by then. Hubby doesn’t care if Charlie makes his bed or not so most mornings it doesn’t get made.
Does your child(ren) have regular chores around the house?
Elizabeth
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