How do we fit both Citizen of the Household chores and Work-for-Pay chores into our childrens busy schedule?
If mornings are a crazy rush, you could limit, for instance, the Citizen of the Household chores to brushing teeth and leave bed making until afternoon, or you could work out a system where things were planned the night before to make the morning run more smoothly. For instance, you could layout clothes before bed or you could set the table for breakfast with cereal boxes, silverware, bowls, and napkins. Only the perishables, like milk, butter, etc. would have to be supplied in the morning. The same applies for Work-for-Pay chores. Unless it is a must chore, like feeding a pet or getting the garbage cans out on the allotted day, you can be more flexible. Chores should not eat into free-time, not infringe on meals, or activities or homework time. Weekends are usually less stressful and a good time to catch-up on chores. Ask your kids for suggestions at family meetings. Agree on the schedule together.
