How to Raise Responsible Children

Parents strive to raise a well-rounded, trustworthy child. Part of this process comes from teaching your child responsibility. Children learn this a variety of ways, such as through chores, helping others and keeping up with school work.

  1. Be a Good Role Model

    • Parents need to be good role models and set a good example for their child. In regard to responsibility, parents should be responsible with their own possessions and clean up after themselves, notes BabyCenter. For example, when your child sees you rinsing your dishes and putting them in the dishwasher or putting your shoes away after your run, it teaches him how to be responsible for himself. It's also crucial to teach him that work must come before play. For example, when he comes home from school, encourage him to hang his backpack up where it belongs before he runs out for free time.

    Assign Chores

    • Daily chores teach kids responsibility and the importance of work, according to the American Academy of Pediatric's website, HealthyChildren.org. Younger children, ages 5 to 7, can help with things such as picking up toys, feeding the family pet and making the bed. As children get older, they can help with chores such as unloading the dishwasher, sweeping the floor and laundry. Help your child keep up with her chores by posting a chore chart on the refrigerator, which clearly states what she is responsible for doing each day. Praise her when she completes a chore and reward her occasionally for her hard work. Alternatively, discipline her when she chooses not to do her work. This could mean taking away privileges such as TV or computer time.

    Give an Allowance

    • One way to reward your child for being responsible and completing her work is by giving her an allowance. An allowance also teaches kids about responsibility through money management and decision-making, states KidsHealth from Nemours. There is no set age for starting an allowance or amount to give. Many parents start out with a small amount and regularly increase this amount as the child grows and takes on more responsibilities. Generally, it is recommended that children get approximately 50 cents to $1 every week for each year of their age, according to KidsHealth. For example, give $5 to $10 per week to a 10-year-old. Encourage your child to make wise purchases with his allowance while still allowing him to be responsible for his actions. Talk to him about saving a portion and donating some to charity, suggests KidsHealth.

    Responsible Students

    • Children must learn to be responsible students as well. Speak with your child about the importance of turning assignments in on time and doing your best at school. At home, children need to study and complete homework, which teaches responsibility as well as organizational skills and self-discipline, according to HealthyChildren.org. Designate a quiet, distraction-free area of your home for doing homework. Start homework after your child has had time to relax and eat a healthy snack after getting home. Go over what assignments need to be completed with your child. Have her start with studying for tests and more difficult homework first, then move on to other assignments.

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