Anyone else feel like they are constantly cleaning up? I mean, sometimes I feel like ALL I do is clean up messes left by the little darlings. When they ask me to make slime, it takes every ounce of energy to not scream NO (insert expletive of your choice) WAY! But my cooler head prevails, and “Sure, we can make slime” makes it’s way out of my mouth.
As my kids are getting older, I have decided it is time for them to have some daily jobs around the house. Anyone else concerned about creating a sense of entitlement? That perhaps they don’t understand the value of money? I sure am. Truthfully, I am terrified that I am raising spoiled rotten children. So, a little work around the house certainly won’t kill them and will help them feel a sense of worth. Earning something really does help you understand the value of hard work.
We had some chore charts hanging on their doors, but they ended up being useless décor. I’ve tried a few different things, and they just didn’t work for us. So, I spent some time searching and thinking. Ultimately, I wanted something simple that we would actually use.
I ended up taking a few ideas and combining them into something that so far, is working very well for our family. Hoping that the excitement of it doesn’t die down for the kids after a few weeks… I’ll be sure to update you on that! But for now, I have found success!
So I chose to do two different things.
First, they each have a very simple daily chore chart.
For these I used, some galvanized boards from Michael’s Craft Store. They came predrilled with two holes and a twine string to hang. I bought some decorative Washi-Tape and made a little grid. Again, super simple and easy. I used some tickers for the names and then I found some planner stickers at Michael’s (by Recollections) to use to create a pathway at the bottom. I found these cute little magnets from this great Etsy Shop! Makes it super simple to move from To Do to To Done, and the little star is perfect for moving along the path at the bottom. I also stocked up and ordered a few more chores so that we can switch them out as they get older and responsibilities change. Each day they move all of their magnets to the “To Done” side, they get to move a spot on the path. Once they complete the path and get to the end they receive $2.
Next, I decided to give them the opportunity to earn a little more cash while helping around the house. That’s where this “Work for Hire” board came to be. I found this idea at thechicsite.com, an amazing website designed by my ultimate girl Crush, Rachel Hollis.
Side note, if you haven’t yet read Girl Wash Your Face, you need to get it now.
She has these printable coupons that you can customize. Fill them in with whatever age appropriate chore you think would work for your kids. I found this memo style board at the local HomeGoods. I came up with chores that were above what they would be expected to do daily, were safe to do, and would also a help to us around the house. I was very happy when the next day I came home to my daughter picking up the floor and asking me to plug in the vacuum! Mom win!
I will be sure to keep you updated as to our progress. I am so curious what has worked for you? I am always looking for ways to help our household run more efficiently!