In November, the Australian government announced a bold move to ban social media for children under 16,aiming to tackle rising rates of ADHD, depression, and online bullying. While some critics argue the policy limits their freedom, many parents and educators, concerned about the excessive screen time impacting kids’ mental health and behavior, wholeheartedly supported it.
So, how can families make this transition smoother? The answer might surprise you: chores.
The Harvard Grant Study — an 85-year-long research project and still ongoing — found that children given age-appropriate chores grew into more empathetic, self-reliant adults compared to those focusing their daily lives solely on academic achievements. Household chores teach responsibility, time management, and problem-solving, all while creating a sense of belonging.
Don’t worry. They may grumble at first, but one day they’ll thank you for giving them these essential life skills.
