Chores are often met with groans and resistance, but they don’t have to be a daily battleground between parents and children. The secret lies in tailoring tasks to suit your child’s age and interests, transforming them from dreaded duties into engaging activities. When chores are age-appropriate, they not only become more manageable but can also foster a sense of accomplishment and enjoyment. Here are a few suggestions from the parenting experts at Popsugar.com to turn those groans into tasks your kids will actually enjoy without realizing that they are doing chores at all!
Chores for kids 2-3:
Even at this young age, having a child do chores is beneficial. It not only helps them become accustomed to the routine, but it definitely helps mom and dad check off a few things on their to do lists! Although these things are simple, you will find that they are indeed a big help! And of course, when you add the “clean up song,” they will definitely have a blast doing their chores.
- Put laundry in the hamper/washer.
- Put their toys away.
- Put books on the bookshelf.
- Help feed the family pet.
Chores for kids 4-7:
This age group is a little older and can shoulder a little more responsibility when it comes to helping out around the house. Their independence is increasing and they are now heading off to preschool and early elementary. They see themselves as “big boys and girls.” Well, don’t be afraid to give them “big boys and girls” chores to do as well.
- Help set the table.
- Make their bed.
- Water plants/the garden.
- Help put away groceries.
- Put nonbreakable (and not sharp) items in the dishwasher.
- Switch laundry from the washer to dryer.
- Help clear the dinner table.
- Pack up their backpack for school.
- Sort silverware.
- Sweep floors.
Chores for kids 8-10:
The children in this age group are unquestionably ready for more responsibility and even bigger chores. At this age, try instituting a chores chart and maybe a rewards system, like allowance. By doing this, you will give them a greater sense of independence and your are teaching them a great life lesson about earning money and you can expand that lesson into money management.
- Clean their room.
- Set the table.
- Vacuum.
- Feed the family pet.
- Help wash the car.
- Take out the trash.
- Rake leaves.
- Help cook dinner or pack lunches.
- Empty/load the dishwasher.
- Put away groceries.
- Bring in the mail.
- Fold laundry and put it away.
Chores for kids 11 and up:
Kids in this age group have reached preteen/teenage status. A chores chart and rewards system, like allowance, is definitely a good thing for this group and will get them motivated to complete assigned chore tasks. Children at this state will begin to learn how to manage their time between school, chores, and a social life.
- Clean their bathroom.
- Help clean the kitchen.
- Wash dishes.
- Clear the table and put dishes in the dishwasher.
- Mow the lawn.
- Shovel snow.
- Do laundry.
- Pack their school lunch.
- Garden.
- Wash the car.
- Walk the dog.
- Bake/cook with limited supervision.
- Watch younger siblings for short periods of time (depending on state law).
Remember, you know your child as all children develop differently. Make sure that you are assigning chores that are the right fit for them and you!
