Kid's Chores

If you bemoan chores, you can almost guarantee that your child will as well. It's important to set a good example. Even if you don't really enjoy scrubbing that tub (let's be honest, who does?), household tasks can be more fun when done with your child. Giving your children these tasks has benefits that go far beyond a clean home. It gives them a sense of accomplishment and teaches them responsibility. Here, some tips and tools that will help you get the ball rolling.

Some Basic Tips

  1. Crank the music -- Children love music, especially their own tunes. You want to develop positive associations with cleaning. You can encourage that with good tunes. If you need help finding some, click here. 
  2. Give options -- Create a thorough list and let your child choose. Make it clear that they have to do each task at one point or another so that they don't stick with the easiest one each time. This will give your child ownership over the tasks.
  3. Work together -- You don't want your little one to feel as though he's the only one doing chores. If you work together, you not only show that it's a group effort, but you can get a good feel for how your he tackles projects. Plus, if the task is too overwhelming, you can gently direct him so that he will not become frustrated or discouraged.
  4. Convey the right idea -- Chores are not punishment. If you instill that in your child's head, it will make them more bareable. Be certain your little one understands that everyone does housework and that it must get done in order for a household to function.
  5. Give praise where praise is due -- Thanks yous and compliments let a child know that she's doing a good job and that her work is appreciated. It will help implement good manners as well.
  6. Be specific -- Sure, they're capable of doing chores, but they're still kids and sometimes kids need extra guidance.
  7. Use a chore chart -- Great for keeping track of who's doing what (and that includes you, Mom and Dad). It's important for children to see that they aren't the only ones contributing and that you're involved as well.

Chores by Age

What your child is capable of doing:

Two-Four years old

Five-Eight years old

Nine & Ten years old

Eleven years old & Up

  • Pick up and put away toys and books.
  • Help feed pets.
  • wipe up messes.
  • Dust with socks on hands.
  • Place napkins on dinner table.
  • Clear and set the table.
  • Mop and vacuum.
  • Take out the trash.
  • Fold and put away laundry.
  • Start washing dishes.
  • Help wash the car.
  • Rake leaves.
  • Take out the trash.
  • Fold clean laundry.
  • Vacuum.
  • Give the dog a bath.
  • Prepare simple meals.
  • Operate the washer and dryer.

The Essentials

What you're going to need to make chores fun, feasible, and kid-friendly. Remember, not all cleaning supplies are made in a child size. Choose lightweight tools or handheld items. Be sure to keep toxic cleaning agents away from your children. If your child is going to use a cleaning agent, be sure it's non-toxic and kid-safe.

For more information on product safety, please visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission here.

Helpful Products

Melamine Dishes 

Super-affordable, colorful, and easy-to-replace. They're lightweight and don't break as easily. They make setting the table a snap for kids.

Brooms,  Dustpans,  Feather Dusters,  Vacuums,  and Mops 

If they have their own cleaning supplies, kids feel more ownership over the work they do.

Toy Storage 

Provide a place for your children's toys and accessories. It shows them that things need to be put away after using them.

Storage Containers 

if you don't have the space for a storage rack, plastic bins are great alternatives.

Non-Toxic Cleaners 

Cleaning agents can be very dangerous. Organic and non-toxic cleaners are a safer alternative.

Deep Shelving Units 

Extra-deep shelves prevents items from falling.

Chore Chart 

Keep track of each person's chores in a highly visible fashion. Now there are no more excuses.

Step Stool 

From putting away dishes, to reaching the washing machine, a step stool is a useful addition in any room.

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