Roles for Kids + Printables

Kids want and need to feel capable and significant. Assigning them roles can help! Grab our Roles for Kids printable and implement this system in your home today!

Give your child more than chores, give them a role!

As parents, we often find ourselves engaged in a never-ending battle over household chores. The mere mention of the word “chores” can elicit groans and resistance from our kids.

But what if we shifted our perspective and started assigning our children roles instead of chores?

Much like a teacher gives their students rotating jobs & responsibilities in the classroom, roles in the home can also be used to teach, connect, and have fun!

Let’s explore the benefits of this approach and provide practical tips on implementing it in your family.

Role Printables

I created a printable with over 30 roles you can use in your home. Roles like:

1. Zookeeper: Help feed the pets, walk the dog, change the litter box, etc.
2. Librarian: Help keep the bookshelves tidy and pick the bedtime story.
3. Cheerleader: Write notes of encouragement to family members.

Why Roles Over Chores?

1. Promoting Ownership: Assigning roles encourages kids to take ownership of specific aspects of household management. It fosters a sense of responsibility and accountability.
2. Teamwork and Collaboration: Roles create a family team where everyone contributes to the collective well-being. Kids learn the importance of cooperation and supporting one another.
3. Life Skill Development: Rather than merely completing a task, children learn valuable life skills related to the role they are responsible for. These skills extend beyond childhood into adulthood.
4. Enhancing Autonomy: Assigning roles allows kids to make decisions and take initiative within their designated areas. This autonomy can boost their confidence.
5. Valuing Contribution: Roles emphasize that every family member’s contribution is integral to the household’s smooth functioning. It instills a sense of importance and belonging.

Practical Tips for Implementing Roles:

1. Family Meeting: Gather your family for a meeting to introduce the concept of roles. Discuss how it differs from traditional chores and why it’s a positive change.
2. Role Selection: Allow children to choose roles that interest them or align with their strengths. Ensure that each role is age-appropriate and manageable.
3. Clearly Define Roles: Provide a clear description of each role’s responsibilities. You can create a family roles chart or poster for easy reference.
4. Rotational Roles: Consider rotating roles every few weeks to prevent monotony and give children the opportunity to learn different skills.
5. Support and Guidance: Offer guidance and support as kids adapt to their roles. Encourage them to ask questions and seek help when needed.
6. Acknowledge Efforts: Regularly acknowledge and appreciate your children’s contributions. Positive reinforcement goes a long way in reinforcing their sense of accomplishment.
7. Consistent Check-Ins: Hold periodic family check-ins to discuss how roles are going, what improvements can be made, and how everyone can better support each other.

Shifting from assigning chores to roles can revolutionize your family’s approach to household responsibilities. It nurtures responsibility, teamwork, and a deeper understanding of the importance of each family member’s contribution.