How To Get Kids To Do Chores Without Complaining

Getting the kids actively involved in house chores can be a struggle for most families. The kids complain, adults nag, arguments break out, and in the end, nothing gets done. 

The reason children don’t like doing house chores is that naturally, it’s not an exciting thing to do. Another reason they don’t like doing chores is that they feel like they're being taken away from something they enjoy doing much more. 

Nonetheless, adults need to understand that kids have a different value structure and have a difficult time turning their understanding into action.

Slowly teaching them to accept chores early on will help develop a growth mindset, preparing them for the future. After all, cleaning is a skill they will use throughout their lives.

So, how do we get our kids to do chores? Here are four ways to make your kids stop fighting and get excited by chores.  

Lead by example

It’s difficult to get excited about chores after a long day. But if you complain about chores, you’re teaching your kids to complain too. Therefore, set a good example for them if you want them to get involved.  

Work together as a team

A simple yet efficient way of making cleaning more fun is doing it together, and kids love spending time with their parents despite what you might think.

Try talking or singing along to their favourite tunes as you do your chores to keep them engaged. The job is also more likely to be done well since you’re there to demonstrate what to do.  

Use a reward system

If you want your children to take responsibility in your home, you should consider introducing a reward system. It can be in the form of allowances, coupons, or a chore card that can be turned into prizes once filled.

Kids love working towards a tangible goal, and a reward is a good motivation for them.  

Don’t use chores as a form of punishment

Never use chores to punish bad behaviour. Chores teach responsibility, which is part of life. If we use them as a punishment it creates resentment towards the real learning - which is responsibility.

The only exception should be when one of the kids does something wrong to a sibling, and you make the child do a chore for them as a way of making amends. 

Your child may not be too happy doing the dishes, but the above tips will help you raise responsible children.