By: Siyona Singhal

News Editor

Most if not all of us have been told to sweep the floor, do the dishes, and perform other household errands that we undertake with little to no enthusiasm. While these tasks seemed mundane and made to torture us, I now realize that household chores are a necessary part of a developing child’s life. All parents should give their children chores to increase their children’s self-esteem and teach them valuable life skills. 

Successfully finishing a chore can increase a child’s confidence. The Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics conducted a study in which they surveyed the parents of almost 10,000 children about the frequency at which their kindergarteners were doing chores. Once those children had reached the third grade, the researchers came back to those same children to have them complete an academic exam. The results showed that children who did chores more frequently as kindergarteners not only had a higher level of self-satisfaction and were more social, but they also did better on the exam. Completing chores gives children tangible accomplishments, which are essential for confidence and helping a child feel more successful overall. 

In addition, chores teach children life skills. Children need to practice tasks such as doing the dishes or ironing clothes so that when they go off to live on their own, they will not struggle with basic household errands. Beyond cleaning skills, however, chores also give children lifelong skills and traits that help them in the future. La Trobe University in Australia conducted a study that found that traits such as planning, self-regulation, and focus were directly correlated with chores. Tasks, such as making a meal or caring for a family member, increase one’s memory and inhibition. As surprising as it sounds, participation in household tasks can also lead to successful relationships with friends and family in the future. The University of Minnesota performed a study that showed that 84 young adults found that the best predictor of success, including positive relationships with family and friends, was that they participated in chores when they were younger. Furthermore, chores instill a sense of diligence and responsibility that children will carry with them for the rest of their lives. 

Children must participate in chores to be successful as they develop into adults. To motivate children to do chores, parents can attach a reward to finishing a task, such as a small amount of money or special treat. Even though chores may seem burdensome to the child, these simple household tasks are significant in that child’s development.

(Sources: La Trobe University, Journal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics, University of Minnesota)