Raising Worker Bees - The Essentials of Work

Teaching our children "how to" work is a lesson too often overlooked. The consequences of this oversight can last a lifetime, robbing our children of reaching their full potential as faithful servants of God and role models for their children.  In this episode, Ginny and Mary Ellen discuss why teaching "how-to" work is critical in raising strong and independent children. They make a convincing case for why today, more than ever, we must train our kids how to work for them to become responsible adults. And they show us, practically and simply, how to do it. Why Aren't They Working? I heard on the news the other day that two jobs are available for every person seeking employment. People stay out of the workforce for many reasons, but most of us agree that we want our children to have a strong work ethic. We want them to have the competence and self-confidence that comes from working – having a job. So how can you give your children a strong work ethic? Much the same answer to the old NY joke about how to get to Carnegie Hall – practice, practice! Younger kids A big part of the problem today is that we don't NEED our children's labor. In times past, when most families lived on farms, daily life was so labor intensive that children were taught to provide essential services early on. They hauled wood and water, gathered eggs, shoveled manure, and fed livestock as soon as they were physically able – often at five or six.  Now we would be thrilled if they made their beds!!! Simple Lessons Will Yield Lifelong Habits Give them a bed that is simple to make and insist they make it. Make sure they stow dirty clothes in the hamper and clean clothes in their drawers.   Kids set the table and clear it off. No one eats before it is set or leaves the kitchen before it is cleared. As they get older, give them regular chores for which they have full responsibility.  A Word about Allowances I never believed in paying kids because they breathe. I don't even believe in it for carrying out regular chores. No one pays me for cooking and cleaning. I occasionally offered a sum for a major job like cleaning out the garage. We all shared responsibility, and we all shared generosity. Teen Years By early teens, your children should be ready to start earning money. Altar servers make money when they work at weddings and funerals. Make sure people know they are homeschooled, so they are available during the day if mom has a doctor's appointment. One daughter used to send out emails that she had no plans on a Friday and Saturday night. She almost always got takers. Bottom Line It is important to learn how to navigate the real world of employment.  Show up – on time – and do the job you are being paid to do.