Imagine your child is eager to head outside and play with friends, but first, you’ve assigned them their regular chore: washing the dishes. They complete the task, albeit hurriedly, leaving behind remnants of food on the dishes they “cleaned.” You face a choice: finish the job yourself, feeling frustrated, or call them back and say, “This won’t do.” In my home, I often choose the latter, earning myself the title of the “Strictest Mom” on occasion.
This aligns with one of my core principles: I don’t permit my children to perform tasks half-heartedly. Whether it’s a poorly scrubbed toilet or a hastily written essay, my response is consistent: it’s not acceptable until it meets the standards I know they can achieve. Yes, I could easily step in and redo their chores, but doing so would only teach them that minimal effort is acceptable. I refuse to enable a mindset of complacency.
I’m not referring to moments of genuine struggle; I understand that everyone faces a learning curve, and I allow room for mistakes. However, when my children understand what is expected of them and possess the ability to deliver, there’s no reason for anything less than their best. If they cut corners or rush through their work, they must redo it until it meets the required standard.
This can be challenging, as children often lack motivation for chores and homework. They frequently test boundaries, and it’s not uncommon for them to respond with frustration when told they need to redo something. While it can be exhausting to endure their complaints, I remind myself that this approach is ultimately beneficial for their development. If I don’t encourage them to strive for excellence, they won’t feel compelled to do so on their own.
In the future, they will encounter individuals who expect their utmost efforts—whether it’s a college professor, an employer, or a military trainer. If they’re used to coasting by, they may face unexpected challenges. By not setting high expectations now, I risk instilling a belief that mediocrity is acceptable, which won’t serve them well and could hinder their potential. No one appreciates a person who cuts corners and expects others to compensate for their shortcomings.
I know my children are capable and intelligent. By holding them accountable, I’m instilling a valuable life lesson: completing tasks thoroughly the first time saves time and effort later. I don’t demand perfection, but I do expect them to strive for their personal best. They understand this from a young age; my 7-year-old recently beamed with pride when he told me he “used his whole effort” on a project. Perhaps I should adopt this as my new mantra, as it’s far better to give one’s all than to fall short.
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Summary:
Establishing high expectations for children regarding chores and homework encourages accountability and a strong work ethic. By not accepting anything less than their best effort, parents prepare their children for future challenges, ensuring they understand the importance of diligence and thoroughness in all tasks.
Keyphrase: Parenting for Excellence
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