How to Get Your Kids to Do Chores Before They’re Walking – The Maya Parenting Method

What would you do if kid started washing dishes immediately after a meal? Apparently in the Mayan culture that is nothing out of the ordinary.

What would you do if your 12-year-old started washing dishes immediately after a meal? Apparently in the Mayan culture that is nothing out of the ordinary.  Michaeleen Doucleff, a reporter for NPR decided to study it and explain the method.  First, it’s about revamping the way we communicate and view the child’s position in the family.  Instead of doing chores while your little one naps, save the chores to do together.  This makes the child feel like a contributing member.  Yes, it may take longer and that’s another part of it, don’t rush.  Take the extra time.  It will pay off in the long run.  Welcome the interruption. Instead of asking them to go color while you finish the dishes, ask them to join you.  If the child asks to help, embrace it.  If the child doesn’t offer, invite. if they run away, let them go. The Maya strategy is to encourage but not force.  It may be the child sits and watches you make a meal.   That counts as participating.  They are learning by watching and one day they will be making the beef stew.   The younger you start, the better.  Toddlers love to help and it’s the prime time to start.  Look for tasks they can do.  They get excited about the smallest contributions.  If sometime falls out of the garbage, let them pick it up.  Also they can open the door when your hands are full, put the detergent in the machine, pres start, etc.  Finally, let go of the perfectionism. The pride they take in folding a shirt is way more important than a perfect fold.