Parenting

10 Benefits of Chores For Your Child With Special Needs

As parents and caregivers of children with special needs, we all share a common desire to have our children lead full and happy lives and to become contributing members of society, of course to the best of their abilities. One thing that is often overlooked but can very helpful to the development of your child is chores. Learning how to do household chores is a great place to get started in teaching life skills and fostering independence. Here are 10 reasons chores will benefit your child with special needs.

Ten Benefits Of Chores

1. Learn an important life skill

Whether we like it or not, household chores are a necessary part of everyday life, ensuring that our homes continue to run efficiently, and that our living environments remain organized and clean, thereby promoting good overall health and safety. When cognitive abilities permit, it is important for individuals with challenges to gain some type appreciation of this.

2. Beneficial to siblings

It is helpful for siblings of kids who have disabilities to see that everyone in the family participates in keeping the family home running, each with responsibilities that are appropriate for his or her unique skill sets and abilities.

3. Purpose

Having responsibilities like chores provides one with a sense of both purpose and accomplishment.

4. Preparation for Employment

Learning how to carry out household chores is an important precursor to employment. Chores can serve as an opportunity to explore what your child excels at and could possibly pursue as a job down the road.

5. Make your life easier

Your kids can actually be of help to you! At first, teaching these chores may require more of your time and energy, but in many cases your child will be able to eventually do his or her chores completely independently, ultimately relieving you of certain responsibilities.

6. Chores may make your child more accountable

If your child realizes the consequences of making a mess, he or she may think twice, knowing that being more tidy in the present will help make chores easier.

7. Develop fine and gross motor skills and planning abilities

Tasks like opening a clothes pin, filling and manipulating a watering can and many more actions are like a workout for the body and brain and provide practical ways to flex those muscles!

8. Teach empathy

Helping others out and making their lives easier is a great way to teach empathy. After your daughter completes a chore, you can praise and thank her, stating, "Wow... great job! Because you helped out, now Mommy has one less job to do. I really appreciate that!"

9. Strengthen bonds with pets

There is a growing body of research about how animals can help individuals with special needs. When your child feeds and cares for his pet, it strengthens their bond and makes your pet more likely to gravitate toward your child.

10. Gain an appreciation and understanding of currency

What better way to teach your child the value of a dollar than by having him earn it. After my son finishes his chores, we pay him right away and immediately take him to his favorite toy store where he can buy something he wants.