Introducing household chores to your little one is a fantastic way to help your tot build skills that will last a lifetime. Believe it or not, you can start implementing this practice sooner than you think. Kids are more capable than we realize and often appreciate the opportunity to feel accomplished. Don’t forget, doing chores can be fun–have your younger child complete simple tasks to an upbeat song. For the older child, set a goal and see if he can beat the timer. Remember, each child matures a different rate. You know your child best. Below is only a suggested list of chores and by no means should your child complete every task listed for each age group.
Age Appropriate Chores List for Your Child by Age
Chores for Two Year Olds / Chores for Three Year Olds
Put away toys
Help make the bed
Dust furniture
Help fill a pet’s food dish (with supervision)
Pick up clothes
Chores for Four Year Olds / Chores for Five Year Olds
All previously listed chores
Clear the table after meals
Empty wastebaskets
Help carry in groceries
Put away clean dishes
Sweep with a small broom
Pull weeds
Chores for Six Year Olds / Chores for Seven Year Olds
All previously listed chores
Sweep floor
Transfer clothes from washer to dryer
Empty dryer
Fold laundry
Load dishwasher
Set and clear table after meals
Chores for 8 Year Olds / Chores for Nine Year Olds
All previously listed chores
Take out trash
Help prepare meals
Keep bedroom tidy
Wipe down bathroom counters
Change bed linens
Wash the car
Rake leaves
Chores for Ten Year Olds / Chores for Eleven Year Olds / Chores for Twelve Year Olds and Teens
All previously listed chores
Mow the lawn
Make simple meals
Clean out car
Vacuum and mop the floors
Iron clothes
Clean toilets
Walk the dog
Why not try creating a chore schedule to help your child keep track of completed jobs? You can find several free printable rewards charts online. Your child can tick off completed chores by shading in the box or placing a sticker next to completed tasks. Make sure your child knows exactly what is expected of her and the time frame expected for chores to be completed. This helps to enforce positive expectations and guides your child to success. While the decision to pay your child for chores is up to you, of course, most parenting gurus advise against it. The ultimate goal is to help your child learn organizational skills and build responsibility. Point out the tasks you complete helping to contribute, as well. Explain that everyone must chip in to keep the home running smoothly. By setting the expectations early, your child will know what is required to maintain a happy and helpful home!