How do teach teens a work ethic?

Question

How do teach teens a work ethic when they are lazy and dont care?

Answer 1

There is nothing wore than a lazy, spoiled kid. I think by giving the child a task and making them complete it.. no matter how long it takes is a start. If they get allowence make them pay for a lunch out when the family goes out.. or a movie. I have learned that a kid wont order something so expensive if they are paying for it. It makes them realize how much things cost.

Answer 2

It's too late by the time a person is a tenager. Having said that, I'd proceed to give no allowance and require them to pay for their own candy, toiletries, incidentals, clothing beyond a very basic wardrobe, snacks when they go out etc. They'll raise a terrible stink and you'll be tempted to give in. If you do, it's worse than not starting. They'll figure out that working the right way will produce income.

Answer 3

Everyone, no matter what the age, has their own "currency".

I'm sure your teens love to watch tv, have computer time, perhaps even drive the car depending on their ages. Simply make them EARN those PRIVILEGES.

For example for every minute spent cutting grass they get to use the computer. For every load of laundry they complete (wash, dry, fold and put away) they get 15 minutes on the computer. For every week of loading and unloading the dishwasher and cleaning up after meals they get the car for 30 minutes.

If that doesn't work you could do some "commando parenting" and just strip their rooms of everything except for a mattress and a sheet. Their behavior and chores done means that each week they get to "earn" back some of the things you provide for them. Underwear, clothes, make up, blankets, pillows, box spring, even the door to the room.

It isn't that hard to teach them if you are creative and CONSISTENT about it.