Getting the Family to Work

In “Redirecting Children’s Behavior” (Parenting Press. Inc., 1998, $14.95), author Kathyrn J. Kvols says delegating jobs among family members can be made easier with the help of a Job Wheel or a chart that rotates chores.

Here are her guidelines along with some from Ty and Linda Hatfield, who teach parenting workshops in Orange County:

* Pick a day, time and location for an uninterrupted weekly family meeting. At this meeting, each family member offers a self-evaluation of work that week and receives a new assignment.

* Begin each meeting with compliments to each family member. Use words such as: “I love you because. . .” or “I’m grateful to you because. . . .”

* Talk about what chores are needed to be done around the house and what, if any bonuses, should accompany them.

* Make a job wheel or a chart that shows the chores. Chores can change at any time. Jobs rotate weekly.

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It’s All in a Name

Chores can be fun for children if the work comes with a title. Some to consider:

* The coach sees that work is performed and runs the family meeting.

* The host sets and clears table and retrieves items for others during meals.

* The maid oversees general tidiness of house, including putting books and games away, and stocking bathrooms with toilet paper, as well as ensuring teeth-brushing compliance.

* The newspaper person brings in the daily paper.

* Team spirit leader is in charge of family’s fun activities and leaves notes or candy as pick-me-ups.

* The veterinarian is in charge of pets and coordinates family duties for cage cleanings.

* The yard monitor puts away toys and tools.