Give children age appropriate work to do

Last week I discussed ways my parents had prepared me for the world of work and benefits I derived. All parents can do this to help their children in adult development.

So how can parents prepare their children for the working world?

• Start at an early age. Even a three year old can pick up toys and take dirty clothes to the laundry bag. A six year old can set the table or take out the trash. Degrees of difficulty in the task to be performed can be increased as the child matures. Positive comments about the work accomplished increase the child's self-esteem.

• Be sure children understand their duties. Confidence follows when understanding is firm. A parent needs to spend time with a child to demonstrate what needs to be done. Cooking, ironing, mending, gardening, repairing, building, etc., can be quality time if the parent and child work together. By sharing, a feeling of interdependence develops. The best pay is a hug, a smile, and a pat on the shoulder. Appreciation must be shown upon the completion of any task, no matter how small. Children need to understand that the family requires each person to pull his or her own share of the load.

• You may want to pay for extra work. If an unexpected job arises, family members may discuss the cost of hiring someone to do it or pitching in and doing it themselves. The savings can be shared by performing members with an equitable amount given to each person.

• Parents may want to encourage their children to seek some type of part-time employment outside the home as age and time permits. Obviously, priorities have to be carefully considered, and a job outside the home can not interfere with learning, family time, and healthy social development. Babysitting, yard work, and running errands are good beginnings. Later, part-time work can be sought following laws for child employment.

• Don't overdo it. High school students, in particular, tend to be overly enthusiastic about earning money to pay for an automobile, to buy new faddish clothes outside the family budget, and to spend more than a reasonable amount on entertainment. Consequently, too many working hours can lower grades at school and cause unnecessary fatigue. Over-commitment to work also may cause a feeling of too much responsibility too soon.

• At each stage of development, the dignity of work, as well as its rewards should be discussed. Vocational co-op programs in high school as well as work-study programs in college reiterate these goals. Shadowing or interning with local businessmen are excellent examples of introductions to careers and professions. Make them aware of their interests, strengths, and abilities, connecting these whenever possible to enhance work enjoyment. Remember these children may change careers many times during their adult lives.

• The other part of the introduction to the world of work is the use of money. Again, parents should begin the process at an early age. A piggy bank and savings account can lead to a checking account, and later to an investment club to learn the basics of finance, stocks, and bonds. A work that will utilize their talents and provide the necessities and pleasures of life is a goal all parents should strive for.

Copyright c 1998 Harold H. LeCrone, Jr., Ph.D.