Many parents assign chores to their children, believing that these responsibilities will help them in the future while developing their character and independence. However, some assume that children should only focus on their school and interests. I certainly believe that giving housework to children is a crucial aspect that is not to be overlooked.
Initially, giving chores around the house makes children explore the sense of responsibility, and discipline. When children are given a specific task, such as cleaning their rooms, taking out the trash, loading or unloading the dishwasher, they learn the cruelty in contributing to the household. All of the chores that adolescents are essential for success in later life.
Furthermore, household chores teach offsprings essential life skills that will benefit them in their adulthood. Tasks involving cooking, doing the laundry, and managing basic household maintenance prepare adolescents for independent living. Many young adults suffer from self-sufficiency when they move out, since they were never taught these skills back home. For instance, I have many friends who have not vacuumed the house, mopped, or unloaded the dishwasher once in their lifetime. I believe that this is very upsetting for them because they are all planning to study abroad, and when I ask them what they are going to do when they go to university, one of my friends has told me that her father is going to teach her all of the fundamental housework. If these young adults have been familiar with these chores since their childhood, they would not have to worry about learning all of the tasks when they are 19.
However, some argue that chores are unnecessary and kids have to act like kids. They believe that doing housework will make children take their academic life for granted. While some families rely on the idea that adolescents must focus on their hobbies, play times, and social life. They imagine that assigning excessive responsibilities around the house will lead to slower child development. My parents have always given me and my sister chores, focusing on our age when we were little, we were taught to clean up our toys whenever we played with them, and now since we are older we have different chores. Believe me, none of these chores affected our growth.
In conclusion, I believe that giving chores around the house has only positive effects, such as independence, a sense of responsibility, and discipline. As long as the assigned house works are age-appropriate, they will remain as a positive influence in one’s life.