5 Gadgets to Get Kids to Do Their Chores

The challenge of getting kids to do their chores has only gotten more difficult with the evolution of technology. Here are 5 Gadgets to get kids to to their chores and keep them “on task”.

1. Garmin Vivofit

This kids version of Garmin Vivoactive allows kids to not only keep tract of their activity, but with an added app, allows parents to assign chores and manage rewards. The watches come in a variety of Disney, Marvel and StarWars characters, with corresponding apps to the watch. They are waterproof and recommended for ages 4-9. The biggest downside we can find is that the silicon watch bands tend to not last long, but replacements are available for purchase. Overall, this is a great way to get your kids to do their chores, be more active and start them on the path to setting and achieving goals.

2. Set Reminders on Their Phones

Just like we set reminders for ourselves… schedule reminders for your kids on their phones and iPods. They will have the option to ignore it, so as extra motivation, in the description of the reminder, make sure to include a consequence and deadline for completing the chore. If they don’t accomplish it – you need to follow through with the consequence. Having some offline charts posts as the overall plan is also a good idea, that way you have a reference for all chores, who is supposed to do them and when they are supposed to be done by. Again you can post a list of consequences and rewards if these are accomplished or not.

3. Use the Wunderlist App

This app allows you to share tasks with family and friends and create a digital networked to do list. While this might be a bit much for younger kids, it’s a great way for older kids (and even you spouse) to be on the same page and to help make things move more efficiently. The app is free to download and you can use your Microsoft or Skype account to login.

4. Use Alexa or Google Assistant

If you kid doesn’t have a phone (or has been banned from theirs) Alexa and Google Assistant can help remind them to complete your chores, even when you aren’t there. (Psst.. There’s a version created for kids and younger ears) [Affiliate Link]

Kids at home while at work? Use the Alexa announce feature through the Alexa app to send a verbal reminder to your kid. The first time you do this may have enough shock value that have the house clean when you get home (okay probably not). But it’s fun to think of them getting a verbal reminder from you when they least expect it. The downside of that is you don’t really know if they actually get that announcement or reminder if they aren’t in the room near the speaker. Still, this technique is another tool to help you keep them honest when it comes to doing their part.

5. OurHome App

The Our Home Chores and Rewards app focuses on a points system rather than making chores related to money. This helps make it more like a game and doesn’t set kids to think that they should be paid for picking up their own dirty laundry off the floor. By earning points kids get instant gratification for positive behavior, which as a whole can be turned into tangible rewards later that you can set up in the app as well. Overall it is simple and easy to use (great for parents and kids). OurHome features calendar functions, shopping lists, reminders, rewards,. Kids can see the tally of their “points” and how they break down. You can even give kids a “nudge” to get an assign tasks done.

While the list could certainly go on, hopefully this will get you thinking of some ways that you can use gadgets to get kids to do their chores and save some sanity in the process. Try different things and see what works best.

Also, let us know what works for you!

How do you keep the kids on task? Share your favorite ideas and success stories in the comments below!