Discipline Tips: How to Get Your Child to Do Chores

In our last Parenting Skills Blog we met Adriana who ignored setting the table. She watched cartoons instead. We saw Justin avoid cleaning his room and run out to play. We heard Alex whine and drag his feet about walking the dog. The dog messed on the floor.

You thought of ways to get these kids to do their chores. Today we'll give you some of our suggestions too.

Remember, as the parent you have discipline choices. Consider the ones below:

3 Discipline Suggestions for Chores:

1. The next time Adriana ignores you and continues watching cartoons, hold your temper. Walk over to her. Stand between her and the TV. Stare into her eyes until she looks in yours. In a firm voice say one word, "Table." Stay in front of the TV until she moves. Don't react to her grumbles.

   When things are going well, ask her, "What are your ideas about solving the table setting problem?"

2. Call Justin to come inside. Say nothing. Use body language. Point to Justin's room. Stand at the doorway and watch him get started. Don't give directions. When he's well underway say, "When you're done, ask me to check it."

   When things are going well ask Justin, "How did you decide to play without cleaning your room? Listen to his answer. Then ask, "What will you do next time?"

3. Alex dragged his feet, instead of taking the dog for his walk. Now the dog's accident is on the floor. Say, "Come here Alex." Just hand him the cleaning materials without any more words. Point to the mess. Don't react to his gripes. Make sure he cleans it well. If he whines and says he doesn't know what to do, say, "I'm sure you can figure out a way." Avoid detailed coaching.

    Next give Alex the leash. Say, "Take Rover for his walk."

You may have other ideas. Please comment below and let me know what you think.

Don't miss our next blog on brothers and sisters who punch each other.

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