Making Chores Fun

As parents, we all know that getting our kids to do chores can sometimes feel like pulling teeth. But what if we could turn those mundane tasks into something fun and engaging? Here are some creative ideas to make chores enjoyable for your children, transforming them from dreaded duties into exciting activities.

Why is this important? Because a few things happen when our kids complete chores: 1) They learn lifelong essential skills for when they live independently, 2) They learn responsibility, 3) Research shows kids feel proud and accomplished, 4) They learn how to work as a team (we all make a mess and we all clean up), and 5) They learn hard work and perseverance. The goal is for them to grow up completing tasks (at appropriate developmental levels) so they are always used to helping!

1. Let Them Be Silly

As parents, we tend to be serious about many things. When I used to be focused on my kids doing the chore “correctly,” I had less patience for them being silly. I realized that this was making them *not* like chores and making it more of a struggle. I also realized I needed to loosen up! Once I relaxed, my kids vacuumed while wearing skates, sprayed cleaner on the mirrors while attempting to write a word, and actually laughed while completing tasks. Yes, this may take a little longer – but time passed more quickly because everyone was happy!

 *Our Chores Guide talks about appropriate expectations for effectiveness and expectations when kids complete chores. You can check it out here

     2. Chore Bingo

Make a bingo card with different chores in each square. As your child completes a chore, they can mark off the square. Once they get a bingo, they can earn a reward. This not only makes chores fun but also helps teach them about goal-setting and working towards a reward.

3. Music and Dance Party

Turn on some upbeat music and have a dance party while doing chores. Let your kids pick their favorite songs and dance around as they clean. This makes the time fly by and adds an element of fun to the tasks.

4. Role-Playing

Kids love to pretend, so why not incorporate role-playing into chores? They can pretend to be a chef while helping in the kitchen, a construction worker while organizing toys, or a scientist while sorting laundry by color. This sparks their imagination and makes the chores more engaging.

5. Scavenger Hunt

Create a scavenger hunt with a list of items that need to be cleaned or put away. Give your kids clues and let them search for the items. This turns cleaning into an adventure and keeps them entertained while they work.

6. Make it a Race

Some kids love a competition! But, we recognize for some kids, this may make them panic or get frustrated, you know your child best! There are many ways to turn a task into a race:

        a. Beat the Timer

Set a timer for each chore and challenge your kids to complete the task before the timer goes off. For example, give them 10 minutes to tidy up their room or 5 minutes to pick up toys in the living room. The excitement of racing against the clock can make the chore more engaging.

       b.  Chore Relay Race

If you have multiple children, organize a relay race where each child is responsible for a different chore. For instance, one child can start by picking up toys, then tag the next child to start dusting, and so on. The goal is to see how quickly the team can complete all the chores together.

       c. Speed Cleaning Challenge

Assign each child a specific area or task to clean and see who can finish first. For example, one child can clean the bathroom while another cleans the kitchen. The first one to finish their task wins a small prize or gets to choose the next family activity.

       d. Laundry Sorting Race

If laundry is a chore that needs to be done, turn it into a race by having your kids sort clothes by color or type as quickly as possible. You can even make it more fun by timing them and seeing if they can beat their previous record.

       e. Room-to-Room Race

Assign each child a different room to clean and see who can finish their room the fastest. You can add an extra layer of fun by giving them specific tasks within each room, such as making the bed, vacuuming, or organizing toys.

7. Reward System

Implement a reward system where kids can earn tokens or stickers for each chore they complete. These tokens can be exchanged for rewards like extra screen time, a special treat, or a fun outing. This gives them something to look forward to and motivates them to complete their tasks.

8. Family Chore Time

Everything is more fun when you are together! Make chores a family activity where everyone pitches in together. Set a specific time each week where the whole family works on chores together. This not only makes the tasks more enjoyable but also teaches kids about teamwork and responsibility.

9. Storytelling

Tell a story while doing chores. You can create a fun narrative where your child is the hero who needs to complete certain tasks to save the day. This keeps their mind engaged and makes the chores feel like part of an exciting adventure.

10. Obstacle Course Cleaning

Set up an obstacle course in your home where kids have to complete a chore at each station. For example, they might have to pick up toys in one room, then crawl under a table to reach the next station where they dust a shelf. The first one to complete the entire course wins.

No matter whether you choose one of these ideas or not, always remember to praise your kids for their efforts. Positive reinforcement goes a long way in making them feel good about their contributions. Something like “Thank you for your help!” or “I really appreciate you!” can make them feel appreciated and motivated to continue helping out.

By incorporating these fun and creative ideas, you can transform chores from a dreaded task into an enjoyable activity for your kids. Not only will this make your life easier, but it will also teach your children valuable life skills and the importance of contributing to the household.

Happy cleaning!

Dr. Jordana and Dr. Erin