A well organized household probably uses a family chore chart or a variation of it. It's the best way for every member of the home to see exactly what they're responsible for, and it makes holding everyone accountable for completing chores that much easier. You don't have to buy one that's pre-made, although that is a viable option and there are many available on the market. All you need is a free template that you can install and use in Microsoft Word or another word processor, and knowledge of how to create the chart.

What You Will Need

• A list of all the chores that must be done, indoors and outdoors
• Free family chore chart template
• Stickers for use with younger children
  
  

Step 1: List All Chores

Make a list of all the chores that must be done on a daily and weekly basis. Daily chores are to be completed Monday through Friday. Reserve Saturdays on your chore chart for your weekly chores, or another day that works best for your family. Leave the deep cleaning for weekly chores when you're not working as much on your business, so that doing the chores won't interfere with your business time. That may include laundry, mopping and decluttering chores.

Step 2: Assign Chores

Write the initials of the person who will be responsible for each chore next to the chore listed. Try to be fair in the distribution of chores, and make sure that each child has an assigned chore, including toddlers. For example, a toddler can help to wipe the table after eating.

Step 3: Use a Template

Find a family chore chart template, such as this one on http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/templates/family-chore-chart-TC010078947.aspx. All you need is a basic table that lists each family member's name along the left side of the page, and the days of the week along the top. You can also create your own in Microsoft Word.

Step 4: Write Down Assigned Chores

 Use "check boxes" as bullet points, and list each chore per person for each day. For example, mom can have the following list under Monday:

• Wash dishes
• Sweep kitchen floor
• Make bed
  
  

The checkboxes will allow you to check off each chore when completed.

Step 5: Inspection of Chores

You should have a completed chore list that you can print weekly. Inspect chores as they're completed by each person, or once at the end of the day. If your children make mistakes or don't do a thorough job, take opportunities to teach them again. Consider whether you've assigned a chore that's far beyond their capabilities. Give stickers as rewards to your little ones, six years old or younger, for their effort.

A family chore chart will help to maximize your time. You'll have more time and energy for the things that are much more important than cleaning up, and that's each other. Trying to run a home without one can be done, but you miss out on many opportunities to teach your children major character traits and you may get stressed trying to balance your work and family life.

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Daphne Mallory, Esq. is the co-owner of Mallory Writing Services and has written more than 100 articles helping home based business owners and entrepreneurs start and market their business. You can learn more about her here.