Children need to start learnign responsibility at the earliest age possible. When a young one learns responsibility, he is also learning the skill of respecting oneself and others, self preservation, as well as dedication and pride in themselves. Parents often think that teaching a child responsibility is done by simply giving the child chores, and providing discipline when chores are not completed. This is simply not the case.



Using chores and punishment as a lesson, only teaches the child to learn to stay out of trouble and avoid punishment. The deeper value of the lesson in responisbility is muddled. The goal here is to teach responsibility, which begets self esteem and self pride. If you simply punish for chores remaining undone, you will not reach this ultimate goal. Teaching your child to take pride in his achievement will prove the lesson successful. These lessons will carry through the child's life well into adulthood, providing a firm foundation for his own children.

The lessons you teach will reflect on how your children will act in their professional life when they are adults. If you have taught him just to stay out of trouble, he will work just like that. Just staying low and never aiming for high goals, just to stay out of trouble. When you have taught them to be proud of what they do and have been rewarding them for a job well done, they will want to achieve a lot in their professional life as well. This is a golden rule, and when taught correct the child will have a lifetime of opportunity.

Challenging your child is also very important. Continue to add special bonuses to chore lists. This will encourage enthusiasm for an otherwise dull task. If taking trash out is one of the child's chores, add a positive motivation to doing a little extra, such as sweeping debris from the drive, or cleaning the garage door. Doubling the pay for cleaning the garage or bathroom is another option. Make sure they clean all parts of the area, this teaches a lesson as well.

Children love special things as rewards. Especially things they have been wanting, like a toy or sports equipment, cash, even stickers. These type of reward systems are good for teaching responsibility, but don't forget to incorporate teamwork into the lesson. While folding laundry or making the bed, hold a race, make it a competition. These lessons will create a desire for success in them.