As a parent, I believe in teaching responsibility, which is why my kids have chores. (I know, call the authorities—I’m a terrible parent for expecting them to help out and keep things tidy.) Each child has a chore chart to track their tasks, but it seems that doesn’t prevent them from coming up with the most creative excuses for why their chores aren’t done. Here are some classic lines I’ve heard from them…
- I already took care of it! Seriously! I know my room looks chaotic, but I did clean it… I just messed it up again super fast.
- I JUST did that yesterday. Do I really have to repeat it today? Who takes out the trash two days in a row? What is this, a royal palace?
- I thought insert sibling’s name was on it. Mom, I swear she said she’d do it this time and I’d handle it next time!
- Oops, I forgot! Sorry about that. I promise I’ll finish it before bed. No, I know I said that last night, but I really mean it this time, I SWEAR!
- I planned to do it later. I have… things to do. You know, THINGS. I’ll get to it after I finish my things.
- It’s just going to get messy again in half an hour. SIGH I don’t even see the point of cleaning right now.
- It doesn’t seem that messy to me. If I can’t see a mess, does it really exist?
- Dad said he’d handle that.
- None of my friends have chores!
- If you’re home all day, why do I have to do it? Wait, Mom, I’m sorry! I’ll do it right now. Seriously, I’m doing it, I’m DOING IT RIGHT NOW!
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In summary, while my kids may have a repertoire of excuses for neglecting their chores, it’s all part of the parenting journey. They may not always want to help, but I know these moments are valuable lessons in responsibility.