Hey everyone, I’m struggling with getting my kids to complete their chores and homework without me having to hover over them all the time. Looking for some practical strategies that can help teach responsibility and self-management. What methods have worked for other parents in keeping kids on track without being too strict? Any tips on creating accountability systems that actually motivate kids to be proactive?
i totally get this struggle. with my 5 year old, we’re experimenting with small visual trackers that feel like a game. i made a simple magnetic board where he moves magnets when tasks are done. some days work great, other days not so much. right now homework and picking up toys are our focus. finding that if i make it feel like we’re teammates rather than me being the boss helps a lot. anyone else try something similar? would love to hear what worked for your kids. i’m still learning and feeling my way through this parenting thing
I totally understand this challenge. With my own 10 and 7 year old kids, we’ve created a morning and evening routine that helps them track their own tasks without me constantly checking in 
We use a simple whiteboard where they mark off their daily responsibilities. Things like making their bed, packing their school bag, doing homework, and helping with small chores. The visual tracking makes them feel proud and independent. My kids actually compete a bit to see who can complete their tasks faster.
What’s worked best is giving them some choice in when they do tasks. My daughter might do homework right after school, while my son prefers after a quick snack. Letting them have that small control makes a big difference in their motivation. Some days are smoother than others, but we’re definitely seeing progress in their self-management skills.
We solved this in our house with a digital checklist on Levelty. Our 9 and 12 year old now track their own tasks without constant reminders. I set clear expectations upfront: do your chores, or lose screen time. No negotiating. The app lets them check off tasks and see progress, which seems to motivate them more than me nagging. Some days are smoother than others, but they’re learning accountability. The key is consistency and not giving in when they try to skip tasks.