For some reason in our home, the kids prefer to do a job at 80% instead of doing the job correctly. Not really sure why but they do. Here’s an example…instead of putting the toy in the room, on the shelf where it belongs, the children place the toy in the doorway of the room. I believe the extra three steps to finish the job would have really hurt them? Not really sure.
When chores are not finished, our kids earn an extra chore. “Spin a Chore” is an idea that I came up with for our kids to help with this problem. Instead of Mommy being the “bad guy” and naming the extra chore, I simply send them to the spinner and let fate be the evil one.
You will notice that “Mercy” is one of the choices on the spinner. This is a perfect opportunity to help the children understand the mercy that God gives to us. Although we deserve the punishment for our disobedience, the punishment is removed. The kiddos really like it when they land on this spot!
A chore chart like this one is super simple to create.
On a piece of cardstock paper, make an 8″ circle or trace around a circular object about that size. Cut out the circle. With a ruler, draw a line cutting the circle in half, then in fourths, and finally eighths. Decide what your seven chores will comprise of and write in the circle along with “Mercy.”
Cut out an arrow and attach to the circle with a brad. You will have to move the brad around a bit to make the hole big enough for the arrow to spin easily.
At a time when no one is in trouble (if there is every a moment like that in your home), sit the children down and explain the spinner, the chores, and the word mercy. This way everyone understand the expectations. Then consistently use it.
On a side note: Do not get in the habit of creating new training tactics and not using them. It becomes very confusing for the kids. Plus they become numb to new ideas because they assume you will not follow through. It takes accountability away from your word. So, if you decide to start a reward chart, chore chart, or any other behavior management tactic, make sure that you as the adult is disciplined enough to stick with it.
How do you handle chores not completed correctly?
Oh, my, this could be MY KIDS! I don't know what it is, but they simply CAN NOT fully complete a chore. Ask them to put their dirty clothing away – it's thrown on the floor beside the hamper. Ask them to pick up a used drinking cup – it's placed in the kitchen by the microwave instead of in the sink. On and one! I love the idea of a Chore Wheel! I'm going to pin it and hopefully get to making one of our own this week! Thanks for sharing!
I am so doing this! My son knows that I am happy to do things for him (i.e. make him lunch, start a movie, play with games or friends) as soon as his chores are done. But this would make me a lot less on his bad side! Thanks for sharing:)
This is the best idea I have heard of in a long time. I have 2 boys 11 and 12 and they always do half the job, it drives me crazy. I showed them the spinner idea this morning and they love it too. I am making my spinner tonight! Thanks so much for this great idea.