Since the lesson in Relief Society a few weeks ago, I have been thinking about the importance of teaching your children to work. I was fortunate enough to be raised with a strong work ethic. I find joy and contentment as I work to accomplish my goals. I have always found satisfaction in doing my best and working on something. In fact it is when I am not accomplishing something, that I feel discontentment.
One of my friends and I had a conversation a few years ago about work. She also had a very high work ethic. We both felt the importance of wanting to work, and doing the best that you are able to when you are working. We both have benefited from having a strong work ethic in our lives.
I know that I want to instill a strong work ethic in my children. It does seem more difficult to accomplish now, then it was a hundred years ago. Today we have so many things that make life easier, that we often forget the blessings that work brings to us. A century ago opportunities to have your children work were always there. Most people no longer have cows that need to be milked or gardens and fields that need to be planted.
Since life has changed so drastically it is important to create opportunities for your children to work. Assigning household chores accomplishes more than one objective. You can teach your children necessary skills of survival, and instill in them a strong work ethic. You can use a family garden for the same purpose. It is important to teach your children pride in a job well done. You can praise them for their efforts, and work along side them to accomplish the tasks as a family.
You can also encourage your children to do their best at whatever they are doing. This can extend from household chores to school to extracurricular activities. Doing your best helps to increase self-esteem and confidence. It is important to help your children feel proud of their accomplishments. What other ways can you teach your children the value of work?
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