Three Cheers for Chores

Chores, jobs, work, do it just because you're part of the family...whatever you call it this topic sends kids fleeing in the opposite direction, at least some of the time! I've tried all sorts of convoluted chore systems over the years, some more effective than others. Funny enough the system that works best is very simple and adds a touch of humor. I write chores to be done on index cards, give them fun names, keep them in a tin and kids choose one to do each week.

I finally realized that consistency is more important than fancy chore charts or what have you. There's nothing wrong with fancy systems and charts but they are not needed.

Here are what my chore cards look like:

Somewhat boring but they do the job. Some of the jobs are Wipe Down Wonder (wipes down kitchen surfaces and appliances), Cob Web Catcher, Dust Buster, Super Sweeper, Trash Thrower, "Would Wood" (would you please get at least your age in pieces of firewood), 5, 10, and 15 minute flings. That was from the fly lady I believe. I haven't followed her in years but I like the fling idea and altered it to my needs. That entails a child spending that prescribed amount of time in a room with three bags. One for trash, one for things that don't belong in that room, one for things that do belong in that room but aren't in the right place. They put items in the bags for the amount of minutes on the card. Then after those minutes are up bring the bags to the places needed. Trash bag to trash, doesn't belong to the rooms they do belong in and belongs but not put away...just put them away.

I vary the cards at times and sometimes make the choices random, sometimes let the kids choose a specific job. Their main all the time chores are just to keep their own spaces clean and specific pet related jobs. Having loads of animals living with us meant that the kids learned their care and needs from very early ages. The index cards are all the jobs that need to be done often but nobody would want to do them all the time.

I must admit these photos are re-enactments and only the younger kids got into the spirit of re-enacting. I didn't know I wanted to do this post until after they had already done their chores for the day. Must have photos though, thanks for humoring me boys!

This week Tristan has Wipe Down Wonder. Each day this week he sprays and cleans the kitchen surfaces and appliances. This can be done with vinegar and water or other natural cleaner if you don't want your kids exposed to chemicals. Just re-use a spray bottle that has run out of it's own cleanser.

Colin had Would-Wood. he likes this job best as it gets him outside. He is good about bringing in double his age or more of firewood even though I don't ask as much of Tristan who has a harder time carrying the weight.

Hayley and Trevor both had different length "flings" this week. I usually give myself a job while they're doing their job too so it seems more like teamwork. Yes I do most of these things regularly anyway but there is something to be said for all pitching in at the same time. I have Cob Web Catcher this week. LOL

If anyone reads this and has been struggling with kids and chores I hope this is somewhat inspiring. If you already have this area covered and have a great system in place leave a comment with your chore system.