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Does your afterschool program assign jobs to your participants? According to Elizabeth Harris, PhD, a child and adolescent psychologist at University Hospitals, asking kids to pitch in can have powerful lifelong benefits. This article was originally published by University Hospitals. The full article can be found here.
“Chores aren’t just about keeping a clean space. They help children build confidence, empathy, emotional regulation and executive functioning. These are skills that serve them well, far into adulthood.” - Elizabeth Harris, PhD, a child and adolescent psychologist
The Harvard Study of Adult Development, one of the longest studies ever conducted, found that children who were given age-appropriate chores developed stronger relationships, a better work ethic and higher life satisfaction as adults.
Dr. Harris says the benefits go even deeper. “One thing that often surprises adults is how chores build empathy,” she explains. “When kids understand what it takes to maintain a home, they become more aware of—and grateful for—what others do for them. That kind of perspective can be a game-changer in emotional development.” Chores also reinforce structure.
Assigning regular duties can also enhance children’s cognitive development. According to Dr. Harris, chores strengthen executive functioning – the brain’s ability to plan, focus, switch between tasks and manage time effectively.
“Kids who have chores are typically better self-managers,” she says. “They develop stronger working memory, better emotional regulation and more mental flexibility. These are foundational skills not just for success in school, but in life.”
So when should you start? “As early as preschool,” says Dr. Harris. “Younger children love to feel capable. Cleaning up toys or wiping down- simple tasks like these foster autonomy.”
For older children and teens, tasks can become more complex, and offer opportunities to grow. “When kids feel a sense of ownership, they’re more likely to follow through,” she says. “And giving them a say in what they do can go a long way.”
Chores can also support mental health, particularly for kids and teens dealing with anxiety or depression. “One symptom of depression is lack of motivation, and the best antidote to that is activity,” Dr. Harris explains. “A set routine, even a small, manageable responsibility can help get kids moving and thinking.” In the case of anxiety, chores can offer a sense of control and predictability. “An anxious brain thrives on structure,” she adds. “Doing something tangible and productive can ease intrusive thoughts and provide a mental reset.”
The bottom line? Giving children and teens consistent, age-appropriate chores is one of the simplest and most effective ways to help them grow into responsible, capable adults. In the process, they’ll gain much more than a clean space. “They gain confidence, agency, and a stronger connection to their community,” says Dr. Harris. “And those lessons last a lifetime.”
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| Source: Edutopia |
In another article published by Edutopia entitled, How Classroom Jobs for Teens Instill Responsibility, program job assignments for older students offer a multitude of benefits that extend beyond the immediate tasks they perform.
These roles can significantly contribute to the development of essential life skills and foster a sense of responsibility and community within the classroom. Here are some additional benefits:
- Leadership Development: Older students often take on more complex roles that require leadership skills. By managing tasks and sometimes overseeing younger peers, they learn how to lead effectively and responsibly.
- Time Management: Balancing classroom jobs with academic responsibilities teaches students how to manage their time efficiently. This skill is crucial as they prepare for higher education and future careers.
- Teamwork and Collaboration: Many classroom jobs require students to work together, fostering a spirit of collaboration. This experience helps them understand the importance of teamwork and how to work effectively with others.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Encountering challenges in their roles encourages students to think critically and develop problem-solving skills. They learn to approach issues methodically and come up with practical solutions.
- Increased Engagement: Having a job in the classroom can increase a student's engagement with their learning environment. It gives them a sense of ownership and investment in the classroom community.
- Self-Esteem and Confidence: Successfully fulfilling their responsibilities can boost students' self-esteem and confidence. They gain a sense of accomplishment and pride in their contributions.
- Preparation for Future Roles: Classroom jobs simulate real-world responsibilities, preparing students for future roles in the workplace. They learn about accountability, reliability, and the importance of fulfilling commitments.
- Social Skills: Interacting with peers and teachers in a job role helps students develop social skills. They learn how to communicate effectively, negotiate, and resolve conflicts.
Overall, program job assignments for older students are a valuable tool in their personal and academic development, equipping them with skills that are essential for success beyond the classroom...
You can download a list of student jobs and their descriptions from Meredith Howard, a middle school history and social studies teacher at Albert Hill Middle School in Richmond, Virginia. The PDF also includes a draft of her job application form for youth.
MORE ABOUT...
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| Dr. Elizabeth Harris |
Dr. Elizabeth Harris is a licensed clinical psychologist. She earned a doctorate in counseling psychology from Walden University. She completed her psychology training at Northeast Behavioral Healthcare, University Hospitals Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and at a private practice. She has advanced training and experience helping children, adolescents, and adults who seek positive, fulfilling experiences, in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Harris utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy, behavior modification, interpersonal therapy, and hypnotherapy techniques to treat her clients.
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