Let's Talk Manners: Clean up & A Lesson in Responsibility {Free Printables}

  As parents we have  great responsibilities.  Raising our children in a godly home is our greatest one.  We need to be an authority figure in their lives that is a good example of Biblical principles.  The definition of responsibility is the state of being dependable.  We need to meet our obligations.

     As Christians, we have responsibilities as well.  We are to submit to God, care for our families and others, tell others about Christ's great love, and honor those in authority over us.  We need to be good examples to those around us by taking responsibility for our thoughts, actions and words.  Our attitudes and motives should illustrate of our decision to follow Christ.

    We who are strong must be considerate of those who are sensitive about things like this. We must not just please ourselves.  We should help others do what is right and build 

them up in the Lord. ~ Romans 15:1-2

     Responsibility is doing what we are suppose to do, even when we don't feel like it.  We need to teach our children this quality as they are growing up.  As a mom of 6, I have found this quality one that needs to be worked on consistently and constantly.  They need to see the need for others to be able to rely on them to do what they are told, or what they have said they would do.  The first way to teach this character trait is to give your child/children chores.  Make sure they understand that being part of a family means we all need to work together to get things accomplished, so we can have time to do other things.  From a young age you can teach them to care for themselves, and this will get them ready to take on more responsibilities as they get older.  They can get dressed, comb their hair and brush their teeth.   They can make their bed and help with laundry.  As they get older add more age appropriate chores.  

      Making a chore chart with incentives like extra TV time or video game time, is a great way to help them learn this character quality.  Kids love to be encouraged and they enjoy earning rewards for their effort.  Chore charts also keep them organized and gives them a place to see exactly what they are expected to do.   Having a pet is also a great way to teach this trait. Have them care for their pet by feeding them, cleaning up after them, and making sure they are getting attention everyday.  You need to be sure they understand the moment they stop caring for their pets, that they will be taken away.  You don't want your children's lack of responsibility to harm their pets.  If you child refuses to take his responsibilities seriously, there must be consequences.   Taking away privileges seems to work best for older children, while time outs or writing sentences/Bible verses works well for younger ones.  

      We need to remember that this quality will  be one that is cultivated over years not days or even weeks.  The more they see you exhibiting responsible behavior, the more they will want to follow in your footsteps.  This takes time!  Be patient and consistent.   

      Here are some great printables to help you figure out what chores are appropriate for different age levels.

Here is our worksheet on Responsibility:

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