Insights From Your Kids: What They Really Want (And How It Frees You)
EPISODE 80
by Dianne Jimenez
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Insights From Your Kids: What They Really Want (And How It Frees You)
In this episode of the Organized-ish Parent Podcast, I’m sharing what I learned from spending time at my kids’ school—especially during lunch hour.
Let’s just say: kids are way more capable (and opinionated) than we think.
You’ll hear what they really want when it comes to helping at home, what’s actually holding them back, and how you can start delegating chores to kids without the nagging or power struggles.
I’ll walk you through real conversations, small shifts that build independence, and practical steps to help your kids step up—so you can finally stop doing it all yourself.
🎧 Listen in and learn how to:
✅ Build trust so your kids take ownership
✅ Turn everyday routines (like lunch prep) into teamwork
✅ Reclaim time and calm at home
It’s not about perfection—it’s about partnership. Let’s raise capable kids and lighten your load, one small win at a time.
The episode at a glance
[00:00] Introduction and Episode Overview
[01:33] Background and Personal Story
[04:46] Observations from School
[07:18 Kids and Their Lunches
[09:19] Encouraging Healthy Eating Habits
[13:31] Classroom Responsibilities and Rewards
[17:19] Engaging with Your Kids
[19:40] Conclusion and Call to Action
Are Toys Taking Over Your Home? Reclaim Your Space - NOW
Insights From Your Kids: What They Really Want (And How It Frees You)
As a busy mom, I don’t believe in chasing the perfect home or doing everything myself. Instead, my mission is to help you reclaim your time by empowering your kids to step up. Over the years—for example, when I worked as a school supervisor—I’ve had countless conversations with kids, watched their patterns, and uncovered what they really want. What I share below is your tactical guide for delegating chores to kids in a way that actually works (no more nagging, no more doing it yourself).
find out how families with 3+ kids tackle the beast: laundry!
What Kids Want (Not What We Assume)
We often assume kids resist chores. But in a recent poll with students, many said they do want to help. The barrier? Lack of clear permission, fear of making mistakes, or not being asked.
If you believe your child is too “little,” you’re robbing them (and yourself) of growth—and time.
Lunch Duty: A Secret Win for Moms
One frequent insight: kids feel frustrated when they weren’t asked for input in their lunches. Yet many are totally capable of prepping parts of it—chopping fruit, packing a sandwich, choosing sides.
My Secret Sauce for setting the kids up for success
Here’s a method that works:
- Prep the building blocks (cut veggies ahead, place options in sight).
- Ask them to assemble or choose—with boundaries (e.g. “choose two veggies and one protein”).
- Respect their choices—even mistakes—so they feel trusted.
Over time, they learn what “balanced” looks like. You lose less sleep hovering, and they gain autonomy.
Dialogue Over Dictate
If you want buy-in, have conversations—not orders.
Involve them in “menu planning meetings” or “chores check-ins.” Ask:
- “What would you like to prep tomorrow?”
- “Which task would you prefer this week—sweeping or sorting toys?”
You’ll get more cooperation, less resistance. You’ll also help them practice negotiation, priorities, and respectful communication.
3 things to establish now before losing your s#!t later on (during the school year)
Chores & Contribution: The Real Family Currency
Kids need to feel useful. A chore chart (rotating tasks) normalizes everyone’s contributions.
But don’t stop at “clean your room”—divide responsibilities by age and rotate.
Rewarding chores? Don’t default to money. Choose shared experiences: screen time, picking dinner, movie night, or time playing a game with you. The deeper currency is connection.
Free training: "How to find time in a busy schedule"
Moments That Matter (Don’t Skip for Perfection)
Yes, chores are important. But your relationship is more important.
Let go of doing everything perfectly and carve out time for fun—board games, video games, walks.
Those are the glue. Kids remember how you made them feel—not how spotless the house was.
Stay on track with laundry & tips to getting the kids involved
Take Action: Your 3-Step Plan for the Week
- Pick one chore you’ll delegate. (e.g. packing their lunch)
- Ask them—not tell them—how they want to do it.
- Give it a full week. Adjust (not abandon).
Watch how the mental load shifts—less stress for you, more ownership for them.
Let’s keep each other accountable. Post your success or your stumble on Instagram or Facebook at 1 Tidy Place. Let’s grow together in reclaiming time and building confident kids.
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