Getting your kids to help in your home office, is often like getting a timid bird to perch on your finger (extremely difficult).  There are some ways to get your kids to want to help!

Getting Kids To Help With Your Business

Getting your child to help you with your home business might be akin to catching a greased pig in a rainstorm, but there are some great ways to try to get your kids to do some tasks in your business.  Now, as with all people, each child is totally different.     The way to approach your son or daughter when asking to help out with your business chores should be tailored to his/her own personality and even to their preferences.

a) If your child is into shopping you might want to offer some type of shopping reward or a “Girls Day Out” to entice her to work with you.  By the same token, taking your son out to a favorite place or event can work wonders too.

b) Don’t get overly emotional when asking your kids for help.  One of the worst ways to get someone motivated to work is to make them feel guilty or judged.   Sure, you might want to let your kids know that their help can help you make more money for the family.  Try not to be heavy handed in your words and gestures.

c) Try to be as pleasant as you can be when your child sees you working.  You want the atmosphere to feel “light and airy”.  Making the work process seem like drudgery isn’t a good way to nudge someone into working with you.

d) Is your office a little drab?  Why not ask your son/daughter to help you paint the place!  Put some new pen holders, curtains and maybe a new area rug in your work area.  Make it a great place to be!

e) If you can, offer some type of pay.  It’s great for your child to learn how to earn money AND you might be able to take it off your tax bill (be sure to check this out with your accountant)

f) Be sure the tasks you give your child is something that is age appropriate.  Even a five year old can help out putting pens into a pen holder or tearing up items that need to be put into the garbage.

Hopefully,  you and your child will have a great working experience together.  If your child says that he/she isn’t interested in helping out, don’t take that as a permanent “No.”.  Try again in a few weeks, maybe in passing while speaking about other things to see whether their minds have changed.