With all the extra time at home on these long summer days, there’s no time like the present to start introducing (or reintroducing!) your children to chores. Expecting children to do chores teaches children of all ages responsibility, good habits, and the importance of finishing what you start. It also helps push back against entitlement.
Keep reading for a suggested list of age appropriate chores for children — from toddlers to teenagers — and be sure to add your ideas in the comments below. Remember that every family and every child is different, so use this list as a guide to best suit yours. Then use the extra minute or two to sit back and relax!
Tip: Young children don’t automatically know how to do things like making a bed or unloading dishwasher so it’s up to us to show them. Practice makes progress over time but be patient in the beginning as they learn!
AGE APPROPRIATE CHORES FOR CHILDREN AGES 3-1
3 Years Old
- Help tidy up toys by putting them in a storage bin or basket.
- Help make their bed.
4-5 Years Old
- Make their own bed.
- Help set the table.
- Help put laundry away.
- Empty the dishwasher with assistance.
6-8 Years Old
- Empty trash cans with siblings.
- Dust/ clean countertops.
- Feed and brush pets.
- Help with the dishes.
- Clean their entire room.
8-11 Years Old
- Wash and clean the dishes.
- Clean and sweep floors, or vacuum.
- Clean surfaces like the kitchen table and counters.
- Water flowers and pick weeds.
12-15 Years Old
- Mow the lawn.
- Do an entire load of laundry from start to finish.
- Plan meals.
- Take out the garbage.
- Help younger siblings with chores.
- Walk the dog
16-18 Years Old
- Go grocery shopping.
- Cook dinner one night a week.
- Clean their entire bathroom.
- Drive younger siblings to and from activities.
Looking for more posts about intentional motherhood? Be sure to read these favorites below:
6 Ways to Be More Intentional with Screen Time
How to Let Children Be Children: Ways to Encourage a Childlike Spirit at Home
6 Childhood Habits that Have Served My Family Well
5 Ways to Encourage Empathy in Children
10 Ways to Encourage Good Sibling Relationships
