Chick Coop Responsibility Chart

Are you trying to teach your kids responsibility on the homestead, but get frustrated that your homesteaders in training aren’t completing tasks fully or beyond the bare minimum? Or do you feel like every time you go to the barn, there is an issue that you have to run back to the house for internet service to look up your best course of action?

You are NOT alone. Even as a seasoned homesteader (with homestead kids), we battle these same issues. Many times, kids and teenagers, struggle to complete the basic feeding and watering tasks associated with homestead chores. Some families become concerned that their child is too young or not ready for these tasks. Or you end up in a power struggle over expectations. None of these scenarios are healthy!

Instead of pulling back, teach your kids more about animal health, homestead sustainability, and personal health. Then create situations where they are managing their responsibilities rather than having them dictated to them. This style of parenting and homestead management does not happen overnight and upfront may be a little extra work for you. In the long run, you will save yourself countless time and resources while also giving your kids a sense of personal responsibility and autonomy.