Do you ever feel like putting a “Help Wanted” sign out in front of your house? You know, a sign that says, “Help Wanted for cleaning, dishes, laundry, pet care…” or whatever it is that you or your spouse seem to spend all of your time doing? If so, you aren’t alone.

So many parents I talk to tell me that they are tired of being “the maid” in their houses. And do you know what my answer is? Stop. Stop being the maid, and train your children to do the housework with you. Is this the quick and easy answer? No, it can take a lot of time and a significant amount of patience from both parents. Will it result in long-lasting change to the family dynamic and result in kids who help out and parents who are free to do other things? YES!

Here’s how it works.
For example: you would like your children to help clean up the kitchen after dinner. This job can start as one of the weekly contributions that they pick at the Family Meeting.

Imagine how taking away some of these daily chores—the ones that take up so much of your time and zap your energy—could change your life. It will enable you to be emotionally available for your kids, kids who are not getting into fights with each other because they are busy doing useful things. Sounds blissful, doesn’t it?

More information on inviting your children to participate can be found in the Parenting On Track™ Multi- Media Home Program.