It has come to my attention that there’s a concerning trend among young adults today—many of them, regardless of gender, lack basic household skills. Picture this: a 22-year-old who has never tackled their own laundry, cleaned a refrigerator, or even knows how often to change their sheets. This is a real issue, and the solution begins at home—your home.
For the love of all that’s good, please start teaching your children how to handle chores, and do it early. My kids, aged 3 and 4, are already mastering the basics of household tasks. They can put away their own laundry and match socks. If they create a mess, they know to clean it up. Yes, I guide them, and sure, I step in to help, but I’m committed to raising them as self-sufficient individuals. The world needs more capable adults.
I understand that watching your child attempt to clean can be excruciating. They might not get it right, take forever, or spill the dustpan’s contents before they reach the trash. I get it—it’s painful. But we must persevere. Teaching them these skills early minimizes the struggles later on. Just the other day, I set up a fun sensory activity for my kids using a cake pan filled with salt. When my 3-year-old accidentally spilled it, he didn’t cry or demand I clean it up. Instead, he calmly asked, “Uh oh, Mom. Can you get the vacuum so I can clean it up?” You bet I can, kid!
It’s these small victories that matter. When our children grow into adulthood, their ability to clean and maintain their living spaces will impact those around them—roommates, partners, and future kids. I want to ensure my children don’t become the adults everyone complains about for neglecting chores. I refuse to raise kids who toss their clothes just a few feet from the hamper and expect someone else to pick them up.
I’m not a neat freak, nor do I expect my children to be, but I aim to instill good habits regarding chores from an early age. This foundation is crucial for them to carry these skills into adulthood. There are countless age-appropriate chore charts available online. Explore them! Children are capable of much more than we often give them credit for, and if they grow up in an environment where expectations are set, it will be easier for them as they grow.
It’s our responsibility to nurture self-reliant, productive members of society, and that journey starts right at home, especially when they’re young. Let’s work together to raise a generation that actually puts their dishes in the dishwasher!
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In summary, teaching children to do chores is essential for their growth into responsible adults. By starting early and setting expectations, we can help them develop lifelong skills that will benefit not only themselves but also those around them.