>> children's chore charts

Children attain many benefits from contributing to household chores, such as responsibility, pride, competence and a good work ethic. A chore chart system helps children complete their chores in a timely manner and without any nagging from their parents. Yes, it can be done! First, keep in mind that children need a daily visual reminder of their chores and responsibilities, just like adults. We use calendars, appointment books and to-do lists; children simply need a chart system for their chores.

To make a basic chore chart, start by listing the daily chores you want your child to complete. Write your child’s name on the top of the chart, and then write “Community Service” in bold letters underneath. Never use the negative sounding “chores.” You will need eight columns running from top (below the heading) to bottom: the column on the extreme left should be wide enough to list one chore on each row; the other seven columns should be narrow for listing the days (M, T, W, etc.). After drawing lines for the rows and columns, each separate chore should have a small box to check-off when completed. Rewards and other incentives (stickers, privileges, allowance, etc.) can also be used.

For free downloadable chore charts that I used with my children, click below.
Microsoft Word or Microsoft Excel

More favorite KID TIPS on this subject:
CHORE BOARD FOR PRESCHOOLERS My husband and I have used chore charts since our children were three. Our first model was made from a basic wooden plaque with glued on pictures representing six morning chores to complete. A cup hook was screwed in at the top of each picture. After our daughters finished each simple chore (getting dressed, brushing teeth, etc.), they covered the picture with a wooden heart (available at craft stores) by slipping it onto the cup hook. When all the chores were covered, they could do other activities of their choosing before we left for preschool. It was a game to our kids. They enjoyed covering up each picture in the same way adults get pleasure out of scratching a to-do project off their list. -- Nancy Knowlton, Wilmette, Ill.

SATURDAY CHORES I’ve always believed in the work ethic and “work before play” adage. On Saturday mornings, I posted a chore list in the kitchen. It had four columns: small chore, signup, more difficult chore and signup. Each child must signup for one small chore and one more difficult. The one who arose first in the morning got first choice. They appreciated this because in a way they each got to choose. I liked it because this scheme got them out of bed on a Saturday morning. -- Winifred Lewis-Walker, Walnut Creek, Calif.

LIST OF CHORES FOR PAY Our teen-agers complained that they didn't have enough pocket change so I posted a list of household chores and the amount I would pay for each one. They picked various chores, depending on how much money they wanted to earn. At the end of the week, they presented me with a bill describing the jobs they completed and how much I owed them. I always checked their work, then paid them. This was good training for the real world of work. -- D.R., Huntington Beach, Calif.

EARN MONEY 20 DIFFERENT WAYS Instead of giving my four children, ages 9-16, allowance during the summer months, I list various chores on 3X5 cards. Each card describes one chore in detail and the amount earned. For example, “Clean all windows, inside and out, $15;” “Pull all weeds in backyard, $10;” “Create a Christmas list database, $20.” There was always a stack of at least 20 cards. My children are seldom broke or bored during the summer. And my house and yard have never looked better! -- C.L.H., Sacramento

A WHEEL OF CHORES This chore chart reduces arguments over chores, rotates specific chores each week, and lets children know exactly what chores they are responsible for each week. It’s worked for my family for years. All you need are two circles cut out from cardboard or thick poster paper, with one circle being 1 or 2 inches larger in diameter than the other. Using a marker, divide the smaller circle in equal pie-shaped sections, one for each of your children. Write an equal list of chores in each section. Fasten the two circles together using a brad, and then write each child’s name on the outer circle opposite a section on the inner circle. Rotate the inner circle each week so the children get different jobs. As the kids get older, you can add more jobs. -- J.W.B., San Ramon, Calif.

Also, check out these Web sites:

www.easychild.com A comprehensive chart system that rewards good behavior and chores. Children earn privileges by being good and completing chores. There is a reasonable charge for the product, but it’s definitely worth looking at.

www.printablechecklists.com/menu/children.shtml A Web site that specializes in checklists, including chore charts for children.
Copyright 2006, Tom McMahon