Teaching Responsibility Without The Battle

As a mom, I remember the middle school years well. They want more freedom and independence, but they’re still learning the responsibility that comes along with it.

Sometimes it’s hard not to step in and do things for them, especially when we know we can do it faster! But this is such an important age to start letting them take more responsibility for themselves.

A few simple things you can try:

• Let them be responsible for remembering what they need for school

• Give them chores that really matter to the family

• Let them manage a little of their own money and make choices with it

• Try not to rescue them from every mistake. Small consequences can be great teachers.

Small consequences can be great teachers• Instead of always telling them what to do, ask, “What do you think you should do?”

And when they do something without being asked, notice it. A simple “Thank you, I really appreciate that” goes a long way.

At this age, they want us to trust them. Giving them responsibility is one of the best ways to show them that we do.