Things Every Child Should Hear: You're Responsible

by Whitney Jones

I think almost all parents would say that one of the traits they would like their child to have now and when they are an adult is to “be responsible”. This is a broad term that can mean many different things. It can mean, being dependable so people know they can count on you or being a contributing member of your family. It can mean, being accountable for your own behavior and doing something to the best of your ability.

Every child needs to know how to be responsible. Children develop self-confidence, feel valuable, and learn important skills when given responsibilities. 

Being responsible is key to children’s success both now and when they grow up.

Proverbs 22:6 says, “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”

Teaching kids about responsibility isn't easy -- but what part of parenting is? It can take years and lots of practice. So how can you as a parent make sure that you are raising a responsible child who then grows into a responsible adult?

First, make sure you are creating opportunities for responsible behavior at home. Household chores can be the perfect arena for teaching responsibility. Parents often feel that their young children aren’t old enough to accomplish many household tasks. Do not underestimate your child’s abilities while teaching children responsibility. My one year old has a handful of responsibilities around the house that she is proud to do! She helps me put the washed clothes in the dryer, she helps me rinse the soapy dishes, she holds the dust pan for me and empties in the trash when I’m sweeping. Find something small that they are already interested in doing and allow them to help you with that task. If they are learning to do these small tasks at 1 and 2 years old then when they are 12 and 13 years old, they will be taking ownership of these things around the house.

Giving your child responsibility helps them feel like part of a family and that they are contributing. I often explain to my 13 year old that because we are a family she is expected to do her share of the work.  Giving your children jobs makes them feel needed and helps in developing self-motivation. It teaches valuable skills and prepares them for adult hood. A child who has accomplished responsibilities within the home will be a better employee and will be more responsible in all areas of life.

Next, teaching responsibility often means stepping back. This one is sometimes the hardest for me. When my teenager leaves her swim cap in her room and has already left for swim practice, my natural motherly instinct is to take it to her. But I have learned that stepping back also means I have to watch her “fail” once in a while, which will help her build responsibility.

Lastly, your own habits are key to teaching responsibility. Perhaps the most effective way of teaching responsibility is modeling conscientious behavior yourself. 

Colossians 3:23-24 says, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.”

We should show our kids and teach our kids to do everything as if we are doing it for the Lord. Whether it’s taking the dog out or making dinner for the family, we should do these tasks without complaining and treat it as an act of service to God. In turn our children will see our behavior and model that same behavior.