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Kiddie Academy of South Fayette Offers Tips for
10 STRATEGIES TO RAISING
A RESPONSIBLE CHILD
The tremendous responsibility of parenthood, initially overwhelming,
soon becomes second nature for most parents. In fact, many of us get
so good at doing everything for our babies that as the little helpless
bundles get bigger and become adept at doing things for themselves,
we keep right on doing things for them. Sometimes we simply don’t
recognize our children’s growing independence. Other times we do
tasks our children could because it’s faster and, in the short term,
easier. But long term, the entire family benefits when everyone
contributes to the chores of daily living. Plus, the independence
your children gain is priceless.
Summer is a good time to encourage your children to take on more
responsibility and exercise healthy and safe independence by helping
out around the house. Kiddie Academy’s Education team shares
10 strategies for raising responsible children:
1. Start early. Most children as young as 15 months old can understand a
simple directive, like “pick up your blocks.” Make it a game for younger
children who are still learning what it means to pick up after yourself.
2. Keep it simple. The younger your child, the simpler your directions
should be. Try sticking to one directive at a time until it’s apparent
she can easily handle that before moving on to larger, more
complicated tasks.
3. Be specific. Saying “pick up the toys” to a 2-year-old may engender
a blank stare, especially if toys are strewn all over the floor and the
task seems insurmountable alone. Listing one toy or a group of toys
you would like picked up and where they should go will probably work
better. Or offer your help if there are too many toys for one small
child to handle on his or her own.
4. Account for extra time. It may take your child at least twice as long
(or more) to complete a task than it would if you did it. Remember
this before you ask for your little one’s help. Be patient and give your
child a chance to take on and complete the task before intervening.
5. Don’t expect perfection. A bed made by a young child will not
appear as neat as when you do it. Remember it’s a trade off, and it will
get better. Practice makes progress.
6. Avoid re-doing your child’s work. If you’re a perfectionist, you’ll
probably be tempted to re-fold the towels your child has awkwardly
folded. If you must do it, wait until your child is out of sight.
7. Watch for frustration. If you sense that your child is trying his very
best and still can’t conquer the task at hand, offer assistance or
re-adjust your expectations. Try tackling a new task together that
redirects everyone and starts the slate clean again.
8. Know when to introduce new chores. A well-rested, unhurried child
with a full belly will be far more receptive to trying a new task than
one who’s tired, hungry or hurried.
9. Remember to praise your child for a job well done. Everyone likes
to be recognized for their hard work, children included. Doing so also
may motivate your child the next time you ask her to do something.
10. Say thank you. Let your child know that you are truly grateful for
his or her assistance.
Talk to the education experts at the Kiddie Academy of South Fayette
about teachable moments teachers are looking for during the school
day, too. Visit www.kiddieacademy.com/south-fayette to learn more.
Once online, you can schedule a visit and even take a video tour. You
can also call 412.221.5658 for more information, or send an email to
[email protected]. Look for Kiddie Academy of South
Fayette, open now!
South Fayette | Fall 2016 | icmags.com 21