Getting kids involved in household chores teaches them responsibility, teamwork, and important life skills. Here’s a list of age-appropriate tasks they can do to help around the house!
👶 Ages 2–3 (Toddler Helpers)
At this age, kids love to imitate adults! Give them simple, fun tasks:
✅ Put toys back in bins
✅ Wipe spills with a cloth
✅ Throw trash in the garbage
✅ Help feed pets (with supervision)
✅ Carry small items (like napkins to the table)
💡 Tip: Make it a game! Sing a “clean-up song” while they tidy up.
🧒 Ages 4–6 (Little Helpers)
At this stage, kids can follow basic instructions and do small chores independently:
✅ Set the table for meals
✅ Water plants
✅ Fold washcloths or pair socks
✅ Put dirty clothes in the laundry basket
✅ Dust low surfaces (like tables and shelves)
✅ Help make their bed
💡 Tip: Use a sticker chart or reward system for motivation!
👦 Ages 7–9 (Growing Independence)
Kids at this age can handle more responsibility:
✅ Load and unload the dishwasher
✅ Sweep or use a handheld vacuum
✅ Take out small trash bags
✅ Help pack lunches
✅ Fold and put away their own laundry
✅ Help prepare simple meals (like making a sandwich or mixing pancake batter)
💡 Tip: Assign “chore of the day” to keep things interesting!
👧 Ages 10–12 (More Responsibility)
Pre-teens can take on bigger tasks and start managing their own responsibilities:
✅ Take out the trash and recycling
✅ Load and start the washing machine
✅ Help cook meals with supervision
✅ Mow the lawn (if safe)
✅ Wash the car
✅ Organize their closet or room
💡 Tip: Give them choices—“Would you rather vacuum or clean the bathroom mirror?”
🧑 Ages 13+ (Teenagers = Household Helpers)
Teenagers can handle more complex chores and even take on leadership roles:
✅ Cook a full meal
✅ Do their own laundry
✅ Babysit younger siblings
✅ Help with grocery shopping
✅ Deep clean the bathroom or kitchen
✅ Yard work (mowing, raking leaves, shoveling snow)
💡 Tip: Tie chores to real-life skills—learning to cook, budget groceries, or maintain a car!
🏡 Making Chores Fun & Rewarding
✔ Turn on music – Dance and clean together!
✔ Make it a race – “Can you clean your room in 10 minutes?”
✔ Offer rewards – A movie night, extra screen time, or a fun outing!
✔ Praise and encourage – “Great job sweeping! That really helped us all.”
