Why We Teach Our Children to Work...

One thing that has been very important to teach our children is the value of work. We want them to know that hard work always pays off. We want them to always put action into their words when it comes to serving others and helping out around the house. It is up to myself and my hubby, as their parents to teach them. We don't want them to ever feel entitled, we want them to know that you must work hard for the things you want to accomplish in this life.

One important thing we try to drive home to our children and ourselves, is that God has designed us to work and to work hard. Even in the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve were told to work the garden. Once they left the garden, they continued to work to provide for their family's spiritual and physical well being. Work is a hard thing. We have to use our physical strength...our muscles. We also must use our brains to accomplish a variety of tasks.

Although working is not always what we want to do, it is something that as adults we have learned is necessary. If we do not teach our children this, we are doing them a great disservice. We tell our children that work is not always something we will enjoy. Sometimes it is really hard and leaves us not wanting to smile at all. We've all had times in our life, when hard work was required. We try to remind them of what happens after the work is done. Sometimes when we've worked really hard on a family project, and we sit back and look at all we've done, something happens....A sense of pride is felt because of all the work that was had. Working hard gives us a good feeling about ourselves :)

Sometimes it is the fun we get to have after the work is done as well that keeps us motivated. We have daily chores that are required in our home. We believe that everyone contributes to the mess, so we must all help clean the mess. We have a simple blackboard, which I write out daily chores. Everyone does chores. I pick chores that are appropriate for their age and a few that are bit beyond. This allows them to do things they can do with out much effort and then a few that stretch them. This allows them to continue learning those life skills they will need when they get older.

Oh and everyone has a turn doing different jobs. No one is above taking out the trash or cleaning out the cats litter box.

When these chores are finished, that is when fun things like a field trip or tech time can take place. These become great motivation as well to get the work done.

Now I know that we all do chores differently in our homes, so I'd to love hear what you guys do. I believe we can all learn so much from each other. Let's share a bit about how chores work in our own family and how we are raising this next generation to work hard and do their best :) 

XO Danielle