A Task-Centred Approach to Chores for Children

Goal:

To help children of all ages develop responsibility, independence, and time management skills through a structured approach to chores. Parents will track their children’s progress and introduce consequences when tasks are not completed, ensuring accountability and household harmony.

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Step 1: Chore Assignment by Age Group

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For Younger Children (Ages 4-10):

• Daily Chores:

• Make the bed

• Pick up toys after playtime

• Put clothes in the laundry basket

• Set the table for meals

• Feed pets

• Water plants

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For Teens (Ages 11-18):

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• Daily/Weekly Chores:

• Take out the rubbish

• Load/unload dishwasher

• Clean bedroom (vacuum, dust, change bedding)

• Do own laundry

• Help prepare dinner once a week

• Mow the lawn/rake leaves/shovel snow

• Clean the bathroom (weekly)

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Step 2: Chore Chart Creation

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Use a Chore Chart to help children stay on track. Below is an example template:

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Step 3: Tracking Progress

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Tracking progress will help monitor the completion of chores and establish responsibility. Use the tracking sheet to monitor how often children complete their chores, and evaluate their performance with quantitative and qualitative measures.

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Quantitative Progress Tracking:

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• Did the child complete the chores on time? (Yes/No)

• How well did they perform the tasks? (1-10 scale)

• Was the child motivated or did they need prompting?

• Did the child take pride in completing their tasks? (Observed behaviour)

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Step 4: Consequences for Incomplete Chores

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For Younger Children:

• Loss of privileges: No screen time until chores are complete.

• Postponing fun activities: Playtime or outings are delayed until chores are done.

• Time-out: Used for persistent non-compliance.

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For Teens:

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• Loss of privileges: No access to phone, computer, or outings with friends until chores are completed.

• Extra chores: Additional responsibilities assigned for missed chores.

• Delayed social plans: No going out with friends until all tasks are done.

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Step 5: Rewards & Reinforcement

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Positive Reinforcement:

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• For Younger Children: Stickers or points on the chore chart. After a certain number of stickers, reward them with extra playtime or a small treat.

• For Teens: Increased allowance, additional free time, or a special outing when consistently completing all chores without reminders.

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Step 6: Reflection & Check-in

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Each week, parents should conduct a family check-in to discuss progress:

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• What went well this week?

• What can be improved?

• How did completing chores make them feel?

• Are there any adjustments needed to the chore list?

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By encouraging regular reflection, parents can ensure that the system remains productive and encourages growth.

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Worksheet Summary:

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This task-centred approach helps parents and children establish consistent routines for chores, creating a sense of responsibility. Use the weekly chore chart, progress tracking (quantitative and qualitative), and establish clear consequences and rewards for chore completion.

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Parental Reflection:

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• Are my children becoming more responsible with their chores?

• Have they shown increased independence?

• Am I enforcing consequences fairly and consistently?

• Are family relationships benefiting from this structured approach?

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Conclusion:

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Implementing a structured approach to chores ensures that children and teens develop crucial life skills like responsibility, independence, and time management, while contributing positively to the household. Regular tracking of progress and follow-up will lead to improved chore completion and family harmony.

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This worksheet can be printed and adapted to suit your family’s specific needs!