Looking for a way to teach children responsibility? The best lessons can be taught right at home. Whether you’re a reformed “helicopter parent” or are ready for your sweetie pie to get on the road to responsibility, check out these 7 tips for teaching your child responsibility.
ASSIGN some accountability
Age-appropriate chores are a simple way to teach your child responsibility. Add in a little financial incentive and your darling will begin learning how to manage finanaces, too.
Let her make decisions
Letting your child make some of her own choices will teach her accountability and help her to gain independence. Younger children should be offered limited
options, but give her the chance to choose from them.
Foster independence
The only way to master any skill is through practice. By letting her tackle age-appropriate tasks, like getting herself dressed, she will also become more self-reliant.
Set a good example
Taking your own responsibilities seriously sets a good example for your kiddo’s watchful eyes. “Whether we promote it or not, children always learn by example”, says Thomas S. Greenspon, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Keeping your promises or being on time are ways you can lead by example.
Pick up a book
Stories pack a lot of punch, so when it comes to reading time, select books that illustrate responsibility. Interesting characters and situations she can identify with will hold her attention. Even better, she won’t tune you out because she isn’t being lectured!
Talk HER through difficult situations
Although your first instinct is to direct and protect your adolescent, instead of automatically telling her what she should do, guide her through the process of coming to a conclusion on her own. Ask questions and encourage her to think it through with your support.
“I know that I make them accountable for their actions and I also use the word consequence rather than punishment”, says luvmy2girls11.
Readers share their tips and advice about teaching responsiblity >>
Show them the bigger picture
The ultimate goal is for your sweetheart act responsibly because she wants to, not just because she’s told to. Explaining to your child how doing her part is helping the family as a whole can sometimes help young children understand how their actions affect others.
Teaching your child responsibility helps build character and makes her a more independent, self-reliant person. As she grows, remember to let her responsibilities evolve. Finally, don’t forget to give her plenty for praise for a job well done!
Get your kids involved
- Age appropriate chore list
- Do chores have a gender?
- Teaching responsibility and chores
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