We already know how difficult it can be to get our kids to complete chores or other responsibilities on a daily basis, let alone if a new task is added to their plate. So how can you best motivate them to accomplish it and stick with it?
Make It Less New
Kids and adults are the same when it comes to a new task; it is new, therefore it is slightly scary and we don’t know how long it will take. Many people, young and old, will put off tasks simply because they think it will take forever but in reality, it may only take a few extra minutes of their day. If the new task that is on your child’s plate is similar to this, then you can help encourage them to accomplish it faster so they can see how easy and quick it can be! Once that “newness” of the task starts to fade, your child will be more likely to do it faster each time.
To-Do Lists
If it’s hard for your children to accomplish tasks on the regular, let alone a new task, then introducing the to-do list may help them. It can feel very rewarding being able to check things off of a list, and this can help your children see all that they have done in a certain amount of time. Adding these new tasks to the list may seem like a burden at first, but once they get it into their routine and see how easily they can knock out some of these tasks, the easier it will be to get it done.
Start Small
If it is really difficult for your children to see what tasks need to get done and follow through, make sure you are setting them up for success in giving them tasks that are attainable. If you are adding chores to their daily tasks, make sure they are age-appropriate and can finish them without being overwhelmed. You can even start with smaller tasks that are a little easier or faster (or both!) for them to begin with, so that they can boost their confidence in getting their tasks done. Once they start to master those tasks, you can either pass them off to a younger sibling, or see if they want to add a new task that may be a little trickier. If they struggle at first, remind them of the progress they made with their previous tasks to help bolster their self esteem and show them that they can accomplish anything they set their minds to!
Katie Kyzivat