However, these invisible benefits can become visible if we will take a moment to view this work in a different way. For example, family work is often viewed as mindless . We can sing, dance, talk or tell stories as we work. As we work side by side with our children as partners, they may feel more comfortable in sharing their concerns with us. We may also view family work as menial .
Children can set the table, fold towels, wash windows and do many other tasks valued in the family.
Finally, family work may be seen as demeaning because, according to Bahr, it often means cleaning up after someone else in a very personal manner. As my children's great grandfather grew frail into his 90s, he lost the ability to control his bladder and bowels and to care for himself. He needed to be bathed and clothed by someone else. Family members shared these tasks. While there is no magic road to revolutionize your family's view of family work, there are several things that can help, according to Bahr.