How To Instill A Good Work Ethic In Your Kids: 4 Tips

Instilling a good work ethic in children is something every parent should strive for, as it makes for competent, responsible adults. Review the following tips for ensuring your children grow up understanding the importance of a hard day’s work:

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Start Early

Get your children used to performing chores and being responsible from a young age. While this doesn’t mean you should attempt to break child labor laws and not let your kiddies run and play, there’s still lots of little things they can do to help around the house. Three and four-year-olds can help you put trash in the trash can, clean up their rooms, put dirty laundry in the hamper, etc.

Remember to praise effort, even if it’s less than perfect (which it will be). For example, if your six-year-old decided to mop the kitchen floor but left a few soap streaks, say something like, “Wow, thank you so much! I love using the mop, it’s so fun! Next time let me know and we can do it together!”

Go For Delayed Gratification

Emphasize to younglings that much like the Rolling Stones song, they can’t always get what they want, at least not right away. Stress the importance of working hard, then relaxing or playing. For example, regularly say things such as, “Pick up all the dirty clothes in your room, then you can go play in the backyard” or “Help me clean the bathroom. We can make snacks and watch your favorite TV show when we’re finished.”

Encourage Volunteering

Encouraging volunteering activities once your children are old enough. Some schools even make community work/volunteering part of the curriculum. Taking time to help clean up the neighborhood or a local park, spend time with shelter pets, or read to the elderly…these and other volunteer jobs help children learn the value of working and helping others.

Here’s an excellent idea on how to volunteer in your community: Starting a School Supply Drive

Be A Good Example

Remember to be a good example to you children in terms of work and all other things. Deal with frustrating issues calmly instead of having a fit, take obvious pride and joy in your work, always be on time, keep your commitments, don’t complain about co-workers, etc. Don’t sacrifice time with your children for the sake of your job, instead find that coveted work-life balance and show your kids what it means to love your work and your family.
Have the above suggestions sparked any ideas about children and work ethic?