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Get To Work
Tuesday, July 05, 2011 by Jeannie Fleming-Gifford
I was out riding my bike through the neighborhood when I spied a couple of teenage girls sweeping up the sidewalk in front of their house. Dad was alongside to help, but the girls didn't look thrilled. Ah, the beauty of chores.
Although their looks said they would rather be doing something else, the truth is that helping around the house is good for these girls. True, it makes their dad's life easier too, but seriously, giving kids chores is the right thing to do.
As I zoomed my way through the neighborhood with my munchkin in tow, I began to think about all the chores that even our littlest munchkins can help with around the house.
From late infancy, kids can help to get things done. Yes, sometimes it will take twice as long, but with a little patience and a sense of humor, having your little one help out will not only help you to get a thing or two done in the house; it will also support them in developing their sense of self and understanding their role, and importance, in the family.
Where to start?
What can even the youngest munchkins do?
Here are a few tasks to put on your little one’s "to-do" list:
Washing fruits and vegetables: With a sturdy step-stool and a little guidance, a little one can easily help wash fruits and vegetables at the sink or clean bowl of water.
Sorting clothes: Always struggling to keep up with the laundry (I am!)? Turn laundry into playtime by bringing that pesky basket of clothes down onto the floor with your little one. Encourage them to find matching socks, sort shirts from shorts, etc. As they grow, you'll be amazed at how they can fold washcloths, hand towels, etc.
Stirring ingredients: Looking to mix up some cookies or prepare dinner? Sometimes our little ones can be helpful cooks in the kitchen. Dry ingredients are the easiest (and least messy!) for little hands to mix.
Wipe off and/or dust furniture: Though you always need to proceed with caution when using any type of cleaning product, together you and your kiddo can wipe off household items. Try a feather-duster instead of a dust-rag and spray.
Water plants and flowers: Look for a small, plastic pitcher. If the little one likes to dump lots of water out at one time, pre-measure the amount needed for each plant (yes, it's going to take a little longer to get the job done).
Pick up their toys: Once babies can grasp objects, they can help put them back in a basket. With marked bins or baskets, toddlers are great at helping keep toys organized and will save you a little work when it comes to upkeep.
How is your little one helping out around the house these days?
