Help your family visualize goals with a chore chart for kids
It’s essential that you communicate expectations and responsibilities clearly. According to a study from Wake Forest University, a written to-do list has been scientifically proven to enhance productivity and efficiency, and can get everyone (literally) on the same page. Chore charts are also a popular tool for parents who want to stay organized but would prefer not to micromanage or nag their kids.
In her own home, Nelson whipped up a simple but effective grid of color-coded cards for each day of the week and positioned it on her fridge. With one color assigned to each kid, the entire family understands each member's role and responsibilities.
Powell, meanwhile, opts for a more detailed “responsibility chart,” which includes chores and other activities like personal grooming tasks, reading and more.
Want to go digital with your plan? Aselstine says his family can’t live without their digital assistant. He and his wife make use of its electronic shopping list, which allows them to add items at home or on the go. His 2-year-old even “helpfully” pitches in — adding cookies and ice cream to the list when his parents aren’t looking.
Juggling jam-packed schedules? Powell’s family relies on the Cozi Calendar app, a digital family calendar that allows them to keep track of sports schedules, social events, appointments and more all from their mobile devices. “It has been a life-changing addition to our family,” shares Powell. “I can't imagine how we would keep everything straight without it.”
Also consider Google Calendar, another tool for keeping schedules organized, or Wunderlist, an app that helps you plan and collaborate on projects.