Here are a few ways to make chore time more pleasant for your toddler and for yourself.
When to Start Training
Begin lessons early in the day. This can be said for the parent as well as the child. Well-rested is the best way to be, especially when tackling something new. If either of you are tired, learning time can become frustrating for both of you.
Also allow for breaks. Even adults need to stop and take a breather. If your child has been at something for awhile and asks to stop, allow a break. Fifteen minutes is a good average, both for tackling the task at hand and for a breather. Perhaps after eating or drinking a bit of something to fortify themselves or just playing a short game, it’s time to jump back into the job and see if they can finish it now.
Stay with your child, especially when he or she is first learning a new job. It will most likely be necessary to repeat instructions. If need be, hold their hand or arm in yours and show them how to move the right way to achieve a goal.
What Kind of Performance to Expect
Don’t worry if a chore is done poorly at first. This is a learning experience and they will get better with practice. Recognize your child’s limits and don’t expect them to complete a whole job on the first try. If there are twenty toys on the floor, getting the child to pick up maybe half or a lesser amount is perfectly reasonable.
Allow more time for the job to be completed than if you did it yourself. Like twice or even three times as long or longer. It may take more time now, but over the long term you are teaching your child valuable life skills. The extra time spent now is well worth your investment.
Encouragement and Praise
Remember to praise them when they complete a task. Gentle cajoling or even picking up an item in tandem with them can work wonders. “See, you can do it!” are magic words to a young child’s ears. Help your toddler find that wonderful satisfied feeling that comes from a job well done. You’ll both feel good.
Rewards work well as motivation, too. Just like most grown ups work to earn a paycheck, most children are more eager to tackle a chore when they have something to look forward to at job’s end. If too young for an allowance, a special treat or playing their favorite game or getting to play their favorite music works well as ‘payment’ for a job accomplished.
Have Fun
Teaching time does not have to be a chore for either of you. Small children are usually eager to help and want to learn new things. Smiles and laughter can go a long way.
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