Give Your Kids Responsibility

Does your child have enough responsibility? As parents, we sometimes have a tendency to want to do everything for our child. This can not only be frustrating for the child but can hurt their self confidence. While I am an advocate of letting children be children, I always try to keep in mind that some day I would like my child to grow into a responsible adult. There are things that even children of a young age can do, that we should let them do. If you want to help develop the child's self esteem and teach them some responsibility along the way, you should start now.

Personal care and hygiene is a must. You should let the child do as much for him or herself as possible in this area. Why? For starters, it can be humiliating to a child that is able but not allowed. Yes, you want them to be clean but bathing them until their 8^th birthday is probably not a good idea. While still a toddler, you should assist when necessary but otherwise let your child take care of their personal care. Just keep in mind, toddlers are still to young to leave unsupervised in a bath tub. Use gentle reminders. Explain to the child that if they neglect to wash their face or behind the ears that you will have to do this for them. That's usually all it takes.

Give the toddler and older child choices. Rule of thumb, the older they get the more choices they can have. Let them choose what to wear and how to style their hair. If it is clean and appropriate clothing, then so be it. If the toddler picks out a gaudy looking outfit, do not laugh or criticize. It may help, especially with the little ones to let them choose from a couple of outfits. Don't overload them. That way you know what they have picked is going to be weather friendly and something that you will find acceptable.

It's important that your child share some responsibility in the household as well. Toddlers can do chores and are almost always eager to help. Start with something small that will not overwhelm the child. Do not give them a task that you expect to be done perfectly and don't go behind them and redo it. This will only hurt their confidence. Make sure that you give praise and thank them for doing the job. Toddlers can manage folding items such as towels and wipe down hard surfaces such as the coffee tables/end tables. This is just an idea, there are many things they can do.

Teaching your child to be responsible is one of the best gifts that you can give them. As they get older they will have several responsibilities. Teach them the importance of keeping their commitments as well. In the long run, it will benefit your child.