Image: Flickr/David D

“Where parents do too much for their children, the children will not do much for themselves.” (Elbert Hubbard)

Whenever you find yourself grumbling about the fact that your kids don’t seem to do much on their own, remind yourself of this quote. If you’re hoping to launch responsible adults who know how to keep house, change a tire, and pay their bills, you’ve got to start somewhere. True, it’s much easier and faster to clean up after them, but it’s not better. Giving your children chores and responsibilities lets them know that you’re confident that they’re capable of performing such tasks. The next time you find yourself muttering under your breath as you scoop up wet towels and dirty breakfast dishes, don’t blame the kids. They’re simply following the pattern you’ve established for them.

If you change the expectations, they (generally) will rise to the challenges you set before them — even if they may balk at first. They may even thank you for it later. So will their future roommates and spouses.