Margaret Machol Bisnow interviewed 70 parents who have raised highly successful children and discovered a common regret: not entrusting their kids with enough responsibility. Adam Grant, a Wharton organizational psychologist, considers this a significant insight, describing it as a "neglected predictor of success and happiness." The findings are supported by a longitudinal study involving approximately 10,000 children over four years. The study highlights the benefits of assigning chores to children as young as four or five. These tasks are suggested by the Child Development Institute to foster independence and skill development.
The 2018 study, published in the Journal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics, found that children who engaged in household tasks during kindergarten reported higher math scores by third grade. This effect remained consistent across different sexes, family incomes, and parental education levels. Suggested chores for young children include making their bed without supervision, watering flowers, putting away clean utensils, matching socks, and dusting with a cloth.
"Giving kids responsibility shows trust and builds character." – Adam Grant
According to Adam Grant, while the correlation between chores and success is evident, it is important to note that other factors might be at play. He emphasizes the need for further research to fully understand the relationship between entrusting children with responsibility and their overall success and happiness.
"Of course we don't know if it's causal or if chores are the sole active ingredient—these parents may be doing many other things right." – Adam Grant
The insights from these studies underscore the importance of teaching responsibility through household tasks. Margaret Machol Bisnow advocates for giving children more chores as a means to develop responsibility and practical skills necessary for independent living.
"Giving our children more chores not only helps them become responsible, it teaches them useful skills for when they're on their own," – Margaret Machol Bisnow