Knowing in their head, in other words being able to recite what
is suppose to be done, is very different then knowing how to put that knowledge into practice. A child may be overwhelmed with how to accomplish all they know they are supposed to be doing. In this circumstance, breaking the task down to more manageable parts is all that is needed.
In any case, if mom is becoming angry she needs to discern if the
child needs more training or if the child is rebelling and is in need of some pain. Mom is either expecting too much or not enough. When in doubt, assume more training is needed. Most likely Mom just wants to send the child off and have the list of chores get marked off without her having to be interrupted in what
she is doing. It is this attitude that sparks frustration when a child does ask a question or sits not knowing where to begin.
It is mom’s job to guide and direct the activities of the home.
When a child is stuck, ask him questions: What are you suppose to do next? Have you checked your list? Do you need Mommy for something? Then guide the child in a direction if needed: Pick up all the clothes on the floor, then get me and I will check it and give you another task. The next day, give two tasks and then
have them come get you. On and on, until the child does his whole list before asking you to check.
During the checking, give tips of how to do the job better. No
yelling necessary, just arm around the shoulder how to.
If on the other hand, the child is rebelling. Sitting mad or sad
on their bed because they have to work, then pain is necessary. Whatever you do—do not give them what he wants, which is to not have to work! When it comes to work the best pain is more work. I would suggest close proximity work. This means having the child do tasks near you. When they work by you, it is easier to
stay on top of their progress, less likely they will fail, and keeps you in relationship, talking even laughing while you work.
In short, if a child is not doing what they know to do, either
training or pain is needed. If mom takes quick action, her temper will not have time to heat up. Always see anger as a sign that action has been delayed too long.