One person could never do it all. So, we work together as a family.
Each one of us is responsible for everyday chores, and we all pitch in when there is a larger project to complete.
The chores are divided up by age and ability. Our older kids can do the dishwasher, sweep and vacuum, and help with meals and laundry. Our middle child folds towels and feeds our cat. Even the twins help out by cleaning up their toys and making their beds. Each one of our kids has a chore chart hanging on the bulletin board by our back door. They are responsible for completing it every day in order to earn thirty minutes of electronics (Wii, Xbox, or other video games).
Our household would fall apart without everyone pitching in. When we all do our part, the work gets done quickly and without confusion over whose job it is. By completing the chore lists early in the day, we are free to work on schoolwork and other things during the day. We can take a trip to the library in the afternoon, or we can bake cookies. We can go on a hike or play outdoors. With the work not hanging over our heads, we can have fun time together as a family.
Having designated chores helps everyone feel like he or she is a contributing member of this family. Responsibility breeds ownership. Our kids take pride in their work, and they do a great job. Each person is essential to the overall success of this family.
As a mother, I am helping my children learn how to run a household. Someday they will need these skills to contribute to their own families. My children are learning to cook, clean, do laundry, work in the yard, and help their younger siblings. These skills are just as important as the skills they are learning from schoolwork and the various classes they take. It also takes a load off me. We moms tend to take on the whole world and then wonder why we feel so frustrated and overwhelmed. I have learned to delegate. Delegating these chores is a win-win for our family.
Carrie Sharpe and her husband, Ryan, write a weekday blog called "He says, She says" (http://www.ryancarriesharpe.com). After their son, Maverick, almost died at birth they began public speaking to share their story with others in a way of giving encouragement and hope. They have spoken to a wide range of audiences across the United States and Canada. They live in beautiful Northern Michigan with their five children: Madison, Maguire, Maverick, Marin, and Moxie-Mae.
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