This tip brought to you by our Dad Guru John Valadez
on Jun 11, 2009
Responsibility is learned and does not develop with age. Children need to be taught what it means to be responsible. It is true some kids will take to responsibility more than others; but that shouldn’t stop you from teaching them, as we grow in age, our responsibilities grow as well. After all, one day they will be responsible for themselves and others as well.
Start off with something as simple as putting on their seatbelt or washing their hands. This can be started from as early as two years old. Children have a natural instinct to fend for themselves and it is up to the parents to regulate how much responsibility a child can take on.
My kids want to drive but, I’ve seen them play Mariocart and I’m not impressed.
When children ask for more responsibility let them have it; guide your kids in their new responsibilities. If they are old enough to get themselves dressed or clean up a messy room or take the initiative in assisting other siblings, then try letting them take care of something else. Adopt a pet, if the child wants one, and make them primarily responsible for the pets’ well-being. Rescuing an animal and taking care of them is a rewarding experience for anyone – especially a child. Some children are natural caregivers and others take time so only you can make the determination if a child is ready for that responsibility.
Whatever direction you try, just take one and prepare your child for life on their own.
