Chores are a necessary part of home life, and teaching kids responsibility and how to tackle chores at an age-appropriate level establishes lifelong habits. Making chores fun and a simple habit keeps tasks from piling up and feeling overwhelming and gives kids the skills to live on their own one day.
Toddler Chores (Ages 2-3)
Toddlers love emulating the older kids and adults in the home, and chores are part of their play. Kids this age can learn to put toys back in their designated places, dust low surfaces, and can learn to do things like watering plants or pouring food into pet bowls. Older toddlers can sort shapes by putting silverware into their designated spots or try to sort clothes by color.
Preschool and Kindergarten (Ages 4-5)
These years are important for establishing the habit of general cleanup after use. Encouraging kids to clean up after playing with toys or using clothes is a lifelong habit that will pay dividends. Other appropriate chores include making the bed, setting the table and clearing the table, helping pick out items at the grocery store, or wiping down counters with a gentle cleaner or a small bit of soap.
Elementary School Years (Ages 6-11)
While kids should be exposed to every chore simply so they know how to tackle the job, you may find that kids gravitate to some favorites that can be regularly assigned to them. Appropriate chores for this age can include simple tasks that require a little bit more dexterity, like folding laundry, sweeping floors, wiping down bathrooms, or assisting with simple meal prep. Additionally, kids at this age should be encouraged and responsible for keeping their rooms clean.
Teen Chores (Ages 12 and Up)
Tweens and teens are able to tackle more complicated tasks provided they have safety training. Chores such as mowing the lawn, carefully handling all-purpose cleaning chemicals, and low-maintenance cooking can all be developmentally appropriate for this age. This age group can also help with tasks that may earn them an allowance or extra cash, such as doing household laundry from start to finish, washing the family car, and even babysitting younger siblings. Older teens can occasionally assist with simple grocery shopping or minor household repairs to learn these vital tasks before getting their first apartment.
