Responsibility: Chore Charts

From time to time I like to highlight products or books that I have found to be useful, and/or that I think might be useful to others.  This is one of those times.

Remember how on Monday I mentioned that wanting to instill the character trait of responsibility in my children actually had to start with me being more responsible?  Well, one of the many ways that has played out in my life is through chore charts.  Over the years I have tried many different types of chore charts. (Yes, I know my oldest child is only 6, but I have switched chore charts about every 6 months, which is probably part of the problem!  I am fully aware that one of my personal weaknesses is sticking with things- and I'm working on it.)  We've done check-off charts, and move-the-magnet charts, flip-over-the-card charts, get-a-marble charts, and pick-a-stick charts.  You name it, I've probably tried something like it.  But the problem with each one is always the same.  Although chore charts are useful to help kids be responsible- guess what?!  I have to be responsible for them too!  I have to make sure I start them over at the end of each day.  I have to make sure I follow through with any special things the kids have earned.  And I have had trouble doing that!  But, I am resolving (that's right, I do make resolutions) to be responsible for helping my kids be responsible.  Day-to-day responsibility is one thing I wish I had learned better as a child, and I hope to give my kids a head start in this area.


Anyway, I think we've finally settled on one, and I feel that I can recommend it highly to you.  It is called "Accountable Kids."  In addition to getting the kits for your kids, I would highly recommend getting the book that goes with it, which also comes with a brief instructional DVD. (Oh yeah, that's right- it comes with an instructional DVD!)  It helps you to understand the myriad of ways this product can be used.  I'm  not going to into detail here as to how it's used- but I will say that it is very versatile and can be used for many different situations.  As we look to foster kids and eventually adopt, I know these will come in handy for us as we work with those kids as well.


I've been doing pretty well keeping up with my end of the chore-chart responsibility, and it is indeed helping my kids understand what their responsibilities are in our family.  So far we only have them for our oldest two kids.  I cannot tell you how badly my youngest wants one!  It's all we can do to keep her sticky two-year-old fingers off her sisters' charts!  I keep telling her that when she is three, she will get one for her birthday. :)


Although we have chosen to go with a formal (pre-made) type chore chart, you certainly wouldn't have to. Maybe you are clever and persistent enough to make up your own and stick to it!  More power to you.  But for those out there who are like me, I thought I would share this.  It is a good (if a little pricey) program that will last you for years, and can easily adapt to changing needs as your child grows.  


PS: The company "Accountable Kids" in no way compensated me for this endorsement.  Just FYI. :)