Chores for Kids: The 2024 Age-Appropriate List 

Are you tired of the constant battle to get your kids to help around the house? It’s time to embrace the power of age-appropriate chores for kids in 2024.

Assigning chores based on children ages and abilities not only lightens your workload but also teaches them valuable life skills, responsibility, and a strong work ethic. Household chores play a crucial role in teaching responsibility and fostering a sense of contribution within the family, preparing children for the future. But where do you start?

In this definitive guide, I’ll break down the best chores for kids of all ages, from toddlers to teenagers. This list of age appropriate chores will help you choose tasks that match your child’s abilities, making kids chores engaging and rewarding, and fostering independence and confidence through household responsibilities.

Get ready to transform your family dynamics and raise capable, contributing members of your household. Let’s dive in!

Age-Appropriate Chores for Kids: Empowering Kids with Household Responsibilities

• Assigning chores based on children ages and abilities fosters responsibility and self-confidence
• Chores teach valuable life skills and encourage kids to contribute to the household
• Creating a structured plan for household chores can engage kids effectively. Implementing daily and weekly chore charts ensures everyone is involved and accountable. Positive reinforcement and clear expectations are key to making kids chores a positive experience

Chores are tasks or responsibilities that children are expected to complete around the home, such as cleaning their room, helping with laundry, or feeding pets. Assigning age-appropriate chores is essential for teaching kids responsibility, self-reliance, and the value of contributing to the household.

Toddlers (2-4 years old)

Young kids, including toddlers, are eager to help and imitate the adults around them. At this age, simple tasks that promote independence and a sense of accomplishment are ideal. Some suitable chores for toddlers include:

• Putting away toys: Encourage toddlers to clean up their play area by putting toys in designated bins or baskets. Make it a game by sorting toys by color or type.
• Dressing themselves: Allow toddlers to choose their own clothes and practice putting them on. Provide assistance when needed, but let them attempt it independently first.
• Helping with clean dishes: Let toddlers assist in putting away clean dishes, such as plastic cups or utensils, in low cabinets or drawers they can easily reach.
• Helping with younger siblings: Toddlers can help with simple tasks like fetching diapers or toys for their younger siblings, making them feel involved and responsible.

When assigning chores to toddlers, emphasize praise and positive reinforcement. Celebrate their efforts and accomplishments, no matter how small. Keep tasks short and manageable to align with their attention span and abilities. Additionally, making household chores more appealing to toddlers can be achieved by turning tasks into fun activities and games. Consistent praise and support during the chore process can significantly boost their motivation and sense of contribution.

Here’s our complete list of all 2-4 years old tasks:

Personal Care

• Brush teeth with assistance
• Wash hands and face
• Dress with help
• Put dirty clothes in a hamper
• Assist in making their beds
• Get dressed with help
• Pick up playthings with supervision

Household Tasks

• Put away toys
• Help set the table (non-breakable items)
• Dust low surfaces
• Put books on a shelf
• Wipe up spills with a cloth
• Help feed pets and fill pet’s food dish
• Take dirty laundry to the laundry basket

Simple Chores for Toddlers:

• Picking Up Toys: Encourage them to put their toys back in the toy box or designated area.
• Putting Books on Shelf: After reading time, have them place books back on the shelf.
• Throwing Away Trash: Let them throw away small items in the trash bin.
• Wiping Spills: Use a small cloth to help wipe up minor spills.

Intermediate Chores for Toddlers:

• Feeding Pets and fill pet’s food dish: Assist in feeding pets with supervision.
• Helping to Make the Bed: Simple tasks like handing pillows or pulling up the blanket.
• Wiping Baseboards: Use a sock on their hand to dust or wipe baseboards.

Advanced Chores for Toddlers:

• Sorting Laundry: Help sort laundry by colors or types.
• Carrying Light Items: Assist in carrying light grocery bags or small items.
• Watering Plants: Use a small watering can to water indoor plants.

For a full breakdown, take a look at the individual guides for toddlers:

Age Appropriate Chores for 2 Year Olds

Age Appropriate Chores for 3 Year Olds

Preschoolers (4-5 years old)

As children enter the preschool years, they become more capable of handling complex tasks and following multi-step instructions. This is an ideal time to introduce more responsibility and encourage independence. Some appropriate chores for preschoolers include:

• Feeding pets: Assign preschoolers the task of filling pet bowls with food and water at designated times. Teach them about the importance of caring for animals and being gentle.
• Making their bed: Show preschoolers how to straighten their sheets, fluff their pillows, and arrange their stuffed animals. Encourage them to make their bed every morning as part of their daily routine.
• Helping clear the table: After meals, ask preschoolers to bring their dishes to the sink and wipe down their place setting with a damp cloth. This teaches them to clean up after themselves and contribute to family meals. Preschoolers can also help set the table and assist with meal prep, fostering a sense of involvement in family meals.

Household chores play a crucial role in teaching children responsibility and fostering a sense of contribution within the family.

When introducing new chores to preschoolers, use visual aids and simple, step-by-step instructions. Demonstrate the task first, then allow them to try it with guidance. Encourage independence while providing support when needed. Praise their efforts and focus on the process rather than perfection.

And now our complete list:

Personal Care

• Brush teeth independently
• Get dressed with minimal help
• Make bed with assistance
• Put away clean clothes
• Comb hair
• Choose the day’s outfit

Household Tasks

• Set and clear the table
• Help load and unload the dishwasher
• Water plants
• Sort laundry by color
• Help with grocery shopping (picking items from shelves)
• Assist in preparing simple snacks (like spreading butter on bread)
• Help carry in lighter groceries
• Match socks in the laundry
• Answer the phone with parental assistance
• Be responsible for a pet’s food and water bowl
• Hang up towels in the bathroom
• Clean floors with a dry mop

Simple Chores For Preschoolers:

• Setting the Table: Place napkins, utensils, and plates on the table.
• Watering Plants: Use a small watering can to water indoor plants.
• Dusting Low Surfaces: Use a dust cloth to clean lower shelves and furniture.

Intermediate Chores For Preschoolers:

• Sorting Laundry: Help sort laundry by color or type.
• Helping with Groceries: Carry light grocery bags and help unpack.
• Feeding Pets: Scoop dry food into a pet bowl with supervision.

Advanced Chores For Preschoolers:

• Making the Bed Independently: Make their own bed with minimal assistance.
• Helping with Meal Prep: Assist in basic meal preparation, such as washing vegetables or stirring ingredients.
• Putting Away Clothes: Fold simple items like socks and put them in drawers.

For a full breakdown, take a look at the individual guides for preschoolers:

Age Appropriate Chores for 4 Year Olds

Age Appropriate Chores for 5 Year Olds

School-age children (6-12 years old)

As school-aged children enter school, they become more capable of handling independent tasks and taking on greater responsibility. This is an ideal time to expand their chore list and encourage them to contribute more to the household. Some suitable chores for school-aged children include:

• Folding and putting away laundry: Teach children how to fold different types of clothing and where to store them. Assign them the responsibility of folding and putting away their own laundry each week.
• Loading and unloading the dishwasher: Show children how to properly load and unload the dishwasher, emphasizing the importance of handling dishes carefully and putting them in their designated places.
• Vacuuming and dusting: Assign children specific rooms or areas to vacuum and dust regularly. Teach them how to use the equipment safely and efficiently.

Household chores are crucial in teaching children responsibility and fostering a sense of contribution within the family.

At this age, school-aged children can also begin to take on more complex tasks, such as helping with yard work. Additionally, they can assist with washing the family car as part of their chores, which helps them learn responsibility and care for shared possessions.

Personal Care

• Brush teeth independently
• Get dressed independently
• Make bed independently
• Pack school bag
• Write thank you notes (with supervision for younger children)
• Take care of personal hygiene and belongings
• Set alarm clock

Household Tasks

• Make a few easy meals (sandwiches, cereal)
• Load and unload the dishwasher
• Vacuum and sweep floors
• Take out the trash
• Fold laundry
• Clean bathroom sinks and countertops
• Walk pets (with supervision for younger kids in this range)
• Rake leaves and shovel snow (light tasks)
• Help wash the car
• Clean kitchen after meals
• Change bed sheets
• Help with yard work

Early Elementary (Ages 6-7)

Simple Chores for Early Elementary Kids:

• Making the Bed: Fully making their own bed.
• Folding Laundry: Fold clothes and sort them into piles for family members.
• Sweeping Floors: Use a small broom to sweep floors.

Intermediate Chores for Early Elementary Kids:

• Loading and Unloading the Dishwasher: Help load and unload dishes with supervision.
• Clearing the Table: Clear their own dishes from the table and help wipe the table.
• Taking Out Trash: Take the trash to the main bin.

Advanced Chores for Early Elementary Kids:

• Helping with Cooking: Assist in simple meal preparation, like washing vegetables or mixing ingredients.
• Cleaning Up After Meals: Wipe down the table and sweep under the dining area.
• Watering Plants Independently: Take responsibility for watering plants without supervision.

For a full breakdown, take a look at the individual guides for early elementary kids:

Age Appropriate Chores for 6 Year Olds

Age Appropriate Chores for 7 Year Olds

Middle Elementary (Ages 8-9)

Simple Chores for Middle for Elementary Kids:

• Dusting Furniture: Use a dust cloth to clean lower shelves and furniture.
• Folding Laundry: Fold clothes neatly and put them away.
• Vacuuming: Use a lightweight vacuum to clean their room or common areas.

Intermediate Chores for Middle Elementary Kids:

• Helping with Meal Prep: Assist in meal preparation, such as chopping vegetables (with supervision) or preparing simple snacks.
• Cleaning Windows: Clean windows with a spray bottle and cloth.
• Raking Leaves: Help with outdoor tasks like raking leaves.

Advanced Chores for Middle Elementary Kids:

• Organizing Their Room: Keep their room tidy and organized.
• Cleaning Counters: Clean kitchen counters and bathroom surfaces.
• Preparing Simple Meals: Make a few easy meals or snacks like sandwiches or scrambled eggs.

For a full breakdown, take a look at the individual guides for middle elementary kids:

Age Appropriate Chores for 8 Year Olds

Age Appropriate Chores for 9 Year Olds

Preteens (Ages 10-12)

Simple Chores for Preteens:

• Taking Out the Trash: Collecting and taking the trash to the outdoor bin.
• Folding Laundry: Folding clothes and placing them in appropriate drawers.
• Feeding Pets: Feeding pets and refilling water bowls.

Intermediate Chores for Preteens):

• Doing Laundry: Sort, wash, dry, and fold laundry independently.
• Mopping Floors: Mop floors in the kitchen and bathroom.
• Helping with Yard Work: Assist with yard work, such as watering plants or raking leaves.

Advanced Chores for Preteens:

• Cleaning Bathrooms: Clean the sink, toilet, and mirror thoroughly.
• Cooking Simple Meals: Prepare and cook simple meals, like pasta or grilled cheese.
• Washing the Car: Help wash the family car, including scrubbing and rinsing.

For a full breakdown, take a look at the individual guides for preteens:

Age Appropriate Chores for 10 Year Olds

Age Appropriate Chores for 11 Year Olds

Age Appropriate Chores for 12 Year Olds

Teenagers and Young Adults (13 and older)

Teenagers are capable of handling nearly any chore and should be given more responsibility around the home. This prepares them for independent living and teaches valuable life skills. Some appropriate chores for teenagers include:

• Doing their own laundry: Teenagers should be responsible for washing, drying, folding, and putting away their own laundry. Teach them how to sort clothes by color, read care labels, and use the washing machine and dryer properly.
• Preparing simple meals: Encourage teenagers to plan and cook simple meals for the family. Teach them basic cooking skills, food safety, and how to follow recipes.
• Maintaining the yard: Assign teenagers tasks such as mowing the lawn, raking leaves, or weeding the garden. Show them how to use yard equipment safely and maintain a tidy outdoor space.

Household chores are significant in teaching teenagers responsibility and fostering a sense of contribution within the family.

At this age, it’s important to involve teenagers in decision-making and allow them some autonomy in managing their chores. Not all kids develop at the same rate, so chores should be tailored to individual abilities. Discuss expectations clearly and establish consequences for not completing tasks. Encourage them to balance their chores with schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and social life.

Here’s our complete list of all teenagers and young adults aged 13-19 years old.

Personal Care

• Maintain personal hygiene independently
• Manage own schedule and homework
• Cook simple meals and follow recipes
• Manage own laundry
• Write invitations and thank you notes
• Set and use alarm clock

Household Tasks

• Clean the kitchen and bathroom
• Mop floors
• Mow the lawn
• Babysit younger siblings
• Grocery shopping with a list
• Iron clothes
• Wash windows
• Change bed linens
• Perform minor household repairs (with guidance)
• Manage household budget (with guidance)
• Prepare meals
• Clean kitchen and bathroom
• Do laundry for family
• Wash windows
• Mow lawn
• Babysit younger siblings (with adult in home)
• Do minor household repairs
• Clean refrigerator
• Iron clothes
• Mop floors
• Clean out garage
• Wash car independently
• Help with home repairs
• Clean gutters
• Organize garage or storage areas
• Plan and cook family meals
• Grocery shopping (with guidance)

Teenagers (Ages 13-17)

Simple Chores for Teenagers:

• Vacuuming and Dusting: Keep common areas and their rooms clean by vacuuming and dusting regularly.
• Folding and Putting Away Laundry: Manage their laundry, including folding and putting away clothes.
• Taking Out the Trash and Recycling: Take responsibility for trash and recycling duties.

Intermediate Chores for Teenagers:

• Grocery Shopping: Create a shopping list and assist with grocery shopping.
• Meal Preparation: Prepare meals for the family, including planning and cooking.
• Mowing the Lawn: Mow the lawn and take care of basic yard maintenance.

Advanced Chores for Teenagers:

• Household Management: Assist with household management tasks, such as budgeting for groceries or planning family meals.
• Deep Cleaning: Do assigned housework like perform deeper cleaning tasks like scrubbing grout, cleaning the oven, or washing windows.
• Babysitting Siblings: Watch over younger siblings while parents are busy or away.

For a full breakdown, take a look at the individual guides for teenagers:

Age Appropriate Chores for 13 Year Olds

Age Appropriate Chores for 14 Year Olds

Age Appropriate Chores for 15 Year Olds

Age Appropriate Chores for 16 Year Olds

Age Appropriate Chores for 17 Year Olds

Young Adults (Ages 18-19)

Simple Chores for Young Adults:

• Managing Personal Laundry: Take full responsibility for personal chores like laundry, including washing, drying, folding, and ironing.
• Keeping Personal Spaces Clean: Regularly clean and organize personal living spaces, such as bedrooms or dorm rooms.
• Helping with Meal Prep: Assist with family meals or prepare meals independently.

Intermediate Chores for Young Adults:

• Yard Work: Manage outdoor maintenance, such as mowing the lawn, trimming hedges, and gardening.
• Grocery Shopping: Take full responsibility for grocery shopping, including budgeting, planning, and shopping.
• Household Repairs: Assist with minor household repairs, such as changing light bulbs or fixing small issues.

Advanced Chores for Young Adults:

• Household Management: Oversee household tasks, including managing bills, planning meals, and organizing family schedules.
• Advanced Cooking: Prepare complex meals, including following recipes, planning menus, and managing time effectively.
• Full Home Maintenance: Take on full home maintenance responsibilities, including deep cleaning of household appliances and minor repairs.

For a full breakdown, take a look at the individual guides for young adults:

Age Appropriate Chores for 18 Year Olds

Age Appropriate Chores for 19 Year Olds

The most popular chores for each age group, based on the search results, are:

• Ages 2-4: Putting toys away
• Ages 4-6: Making the bed
• Ages 6-12: Cleaning bedroom
• Ages 12-18: Doing laundry

How to Assign Chores with Hire and Fire Your Kids

Track your chores using the Hire and Fire Your Kids app. You can log your completed tasks and see how many points you’ve earned. Managing chores is seamless with the Hire and Fire Your Kids app, where kids can learn through play. Here’s how to get started:

1. Download and Set Up the App: Download the app and create profiles for each child.
2. Assign Chores: Use the app to assign age-appropriate chores and set deadlines. Or, your kids can “apply for jobs” and assign themselves.
3. Track Progress: Monitor their progress through the app and provide feedback. Give out warnings or recognition as needed.
4. Incentivize with Rewards: Set up and customize a reward system that motivates your child to complete chores on time. Use KidsKash to pay them out for the money they earn with their chores.
5. Review and Adjust: Regularly review chore assignments and adjust based on your child’s growth and performance.

Teaching Kids Responsibility Through Chores

• Instill a strong work ethic and sense of responsibility in children
• Create a consistent routine to make chores a daily habit
• Lead by example to demonstrate the importance of teamwork and a positive attitude

Additionally, household chores play a crucial role in teaching children responsibility and fostering a sense of contribution within the family. Creating a structured plan for household tasks, such as daily and weekly chore charts, can engage kids effectively. Consistent praise and support during the chore process can make chores more appealing and ensure everyone is involved and accountable.

Establishing a routine

Creating a consistent schedule for chores is essential in teaching kids responsibility. By making chores a daily habit, children learn the importance of contributing to the household and develop a strong work ethic. A chore chart or reward system can help track progress and provide motivation. Using a chore chart allows both parents and children to see what tasks have been completed and what still needs to be done, which can be very motivating for kids.

Creating a consistent schedule

Set specific times for chores each day, such as after school or before dinner. This helps children understand that chores are a regular part of their daily routine, just like brushing their teeth or doing homework. Be sure to allocate enough time for each task, considering the child’s age and ability.

Making chores a daily habit

Consistency is key when it comes to creating habits. Encourage children to complete their chores at the same time each day, and provide gentle reminders when necessary. Over time, chores will become a natural part of their daily routine, and they will develop a sense of responsibility for their tasks.

Using a chore chart or reward system

A visual chore chart can help children keep track of their tasks and progress. Use stickers, checkmarks, or a point system to mark completed chores. Consider offering rewards for consistent completion of tasks, such as extra screen time or a special outing. However, be sure to emphasize that the primary goal is contributing to the household, not just earning rewards.

Chores grow and update with your kids

As your child ages, the amount of responsibility they can take on grows with them. However, not all kids develop the same abilities at the same age. With small additions you can teach more and more autonomy to your children. Here are a few examples.

As your child ages, the amount of responsibility they can take on grows with them. With small additions you can teach more and more autonomy to your children. Here are a few examples.

Leading by example

Children learn best by observing and imitating the adults in their lives. By demonstrating a positive attitude towards chores and showing kids how to complete tasks properly, parents can foster a sense of teamwork and responsibility within the family.

Showing kids how to complete tasks properly

When introducing a new chore, take the time to demonstrate each step clearly. For example, when teaching a child to load the dishwasher, show them how to rinse dishes, place them in the rack, and add detergent. Allow them to practice under your supervision, offering guidance and praise as they learn.

Demonstrating a positive attitude towards chores

Children often mirror their parents’ attitudes, so it’s crucial to approach chores with positivity and enthusiasm. Instead of complaining about tasks, emphasize the importance of working together as a family and taking pride in a clean, well-maintained home. When children see their parents tackling chores with a positive outlook, they are more likely to adopt a similar mindset.

Involving kids in family chores

In addition to individual chores, involve children in family tasks, such as setting the table, folding laundry, or washing the car. Working alongside parents and siblings helps children feel like valued members of the household and reinforces the idea that everyone has a role to play in keeping the home running smoothly.

Benefits of Chores for Child Development

TL;DR:

• Chores boost self-esteem, confidence, and independence
• Kids learn valuable life skills and decision-making through chores
• Chores teach life skills that are valuable for future success
• Chores foster responsibility, teamwork, and a strong work ethic

Building self-esteem and confidence

Assigning age-appropriate chores to children with positive reinforcement provides them with a sense of accomplishment and pride. As they complete tasks successfully, their self-esteem grows, and they gain confidence in their abilities. Chores allow kids to learn valuable skills, such as cooking, cleaning, and organizing, which they can carry into adulthood. These skills not only boost their self-esteem but also prepare them for future challenges.

Positive feedback from parents and caregivers reinforces their efforts and encourages growth. Praising children for their hard work and dedication helps them understand the value of their contributions to the household. This recognition fosters a sense of self-worth and motivates them to continue taking on new responsibilities.

The power of positive reinforcement

According to a study by the University of Minnesota, children who receive positive reinforcement for completing chores are more likely to develop a strong sense of self-esteem and confidence. The study found that children who were praised for their efforts and contributions were more likely to take on additional responsibilities and seek out new challenges.

Marty Rossmann at The University of Minnesota has emphasized that involving children in household tasks from a young age can significantly impact their future success. Her research indicates that early involvement in chores can predict young adults’ success in their mid-20s, highlighting the importance of developing responsibility and self-efficacy from a young age​

Additionally, sources such as Psychology Today and the Child Mind Institute also discuss the benefits of positive reinforcement. They outline how praising children’s efforts and contributions can boost their self-esteem, encourage them to take on more responsibilities, and help them seek out new challenges​.

Fostering independence and decision-making skills

Chores provide children with opportunities to make choices and solve problems on their own. As they tackle different tasks, they learn to manage their time and prioritize their responsibilities. This process helps them develop critical thinking skills and learn to make decisions independently.

For example, when a child is assigned the task of folding laundry, they must decide how to sort the clothes, which items to fold first, and how to organize them in their drawers. These small decisions help children build confidence in their ability to make choices and solve problems without constant guidance from adults.

The independence gained through chores prepares children for adulthood. As they grow older, they will be better equipped to manage their own households, make important life decisions, and navigate challenges with confidence.

Teaching responsibility and accountability

Assigning chores to children teaches them the importance of responsibility and accountability. When kids are given specific tasks to complete, they learn that their actions have consequences and that they are responsible for fulfilling their obligations.

For instance, if a child is tasked with watering the plants, they learn that neglecting this duty can result in the plants wilting or dying. This understanding of cause and effect helps children develop a sense of responsibility and accountability for their actions.

Moreover, chores help children understand that they are part of a larger community—their family. By contributing to household tasks, they learn that their efforts are essential to the smooth functioning of the family unit. This realization fosters a sense of belonging and encourages them to take pride in their role within the family.

Promoting teamwork and collaboration

Chores provide an excellent opportunity for children to learn the value of teamwork and collaboration. When siblings or family members work together to complete tasks, they learn to communicate effectively, divide responsibilities, and support one another.

For example, if two siblings are assigned the task of setting the table for dinner, they must work together to gather the necessary items, decide who will place each item, and ensure that the table is set correctly. This collaboration teaches children the importance of cooperation and helps them develop strong interpersonal skills.

Working together on chores also strengthens family bonds. As children and parents work side by side, they have the opportunity to engage in conversation, share experiences, and create lasting memories. This shared experience helps foster a sense of unity and closeness within the family.

Instilling a strong work ethic

Assigning chores to children helps instill a strong work ethic from an early age. As kids learn to complete tasks efficiently and effectively, they develop a sense of pride in their work and understand the value of putting in effort to achieve desired results.

This strong work ethic will serve them well throughout their lives, both in their personal and professional endeavors. Children who grow up understanding the importance of hard work and dedication are more likely to be successful in school, in their careers, and in their relationships.

Moreover, a strong work ethic is closely tied to resilience and perseverance. When children encounter challenges or setbacks while completing chores, they learn to push through and find solutions. This resilience will help them navigate the inevitable obstacles they will face in life with determination and a positive attitude.

Overcoming Challenges and Resistance to Chores

TL;DR:

• Make chores fun and engaging to keep kids motivated. School aged children can benefit from turning chores into games or competitions.
• Address complaints and find compromises when needed
• Be consistent in enforcing chore expectations

Making chores fun and engaging

Turning chores into games or friendly competitions can help school aged children stay motivated and engaged. She recommends using timers, music, or rewards to make tasks more enjoyable.

“Making chores into a game can be a great way to get kids excited about helping out around the house.”

Sarah Enos Watamura

Turn chores into a game kids want to play

One way to make chores more fun is to turn them into games or competitions. For example, you could have a race to see who can fold the most laundry in five minutes or who can pick up the most toys in a certain amount of time. This can help kids stay focused and motivated, while also making the task feel less like work.

Use music, timers, or rewards

Another way to make chores more engaging is to use music, timers, or rewards. Playing upbeat music while doing chores can help kids stay energized and positive. Setting a timer can also help kids stay on task and feel a sense of accomplishment when they finish before the buzzer. Offering small rewards, such as extra screen time or a favorite snack, can also be a great motivator.

Celebrate successes and milestones

It’s important to celebrate successes and milestones along the way. When kids complete a big chore or reach a goal, take a moment to acknowledge their hard work and praise their efforts. This can help them feel valued and appreciated, and encourage them to keep up the good work.

Addressing common complaints and excuses

Even with the best intentions, kids may still resist or complain about doing chores. It’s important to listen to their concerns and find compromises when necessary. Dr. Kenneth Barish, a clinical associate professor of psychology at Weill Cornell Medical College, advises parents to

“Acknowledge their child’s feelings and perspective, even if they don’t agree with them.”

Dr. Kenneth Barish

Listen to concerns and find compromises

When kids complain about chores, take the time to listen to their concerns and try to understand where they’re coming from. If a particular chore feels too difficult or time-consuming, consider breaking it down into smaller steps or finding a way to make it easier. Be open to compromises, such as allowing kids to choose which chores they do or when they do them.

Emphasize the importance of teamwork

It’s also important to emphasize the importance of teamwork and shared responsibility. Remind kids that everyone in the family plays a role in keeping the household running smoothly. Encourage them to see chores as a way to contribute to the family and take pride in their work.

Be consistent in enforcing chore expectations

Finally, it’s crucial to be consistent in enforcing chore expectations. If kids know that they can get out of doing chores by complaining or making excuses, they’re more likely to keep doing so. Set clear expectations and consequences, and follow through with them consistently. This can help kids learn responsibility and accountability, while also making chores a regular part of their routine.

Choosing the Right Chores for Your Family

• Align chores with family values and your child’s abilities
• Tailor tasks to promote essential life skills and individual strengths
• Provide necessary tools and support for your child’s success

Considering family values and priorities

When selecting chores for your children, it’s crucial to align them with your family’s goals and beliefs. This approach ensures that the tasks your kids undertake contribute to their personal growth and the overall well-being of the family unit. By prioritizing chores that promote essential life skills and values, you’re setting your children up for success in their future endeavors.

Take the time to assess your family’s unique dynamics and identify the values you hold dear. Whether it’s responsibility, teamwork, or self-sufficiency, choose chores that reinforce these principles. For example, if environmental consciousness is a core belief, tasks like recycling, composting, or tending to a vegetable garden can instill a sense of eco-responsibility in your children.

Tailoring chores to your child’s individual strengths and interests is another key aspect of effective task assignment. By recognizing their natural inclinations and passions, you can create a more engaging and fulfilling experience for them. A child who loves animals may find joy in feeding and grooming pets, while a budding artist might relish the opportunity to help with home decorating projects.

Adapting chores to your child’s abilities and needs

When assigning chores, it’s essential to consider your child’s developmental stage and capabilities. What may be an appropriate task for a 10-year-old could be overwhelming or even dangerous for a 5-year-old. Take the time to assess your child’s physical, cognitive, and emotional readiness for specific chores.

For younger children, like 5-year-olds, suitable chores should be simple, safe, and easily achievable. Tasks such as setting the table, watering plants, or putting away toys are excellent starting points. These chores help develop basic skills and a sense of responsibility without being overly demanding.

As your child grows and matures, gradually introduce more complex and age-appropriate chores. A 12-year-old, for instance, may be ready to take on tasks like folding laundry, preparing simple meals, or helping with yard work. By progressively increasing the difficulty and scope of chores, you enable your child to build confidence and master new skills over time.

Modifying tasks for individual needs

It’s important to recognize that every child is unique, and some may have physical or learning differences that require accommodations. Be willing to modify chores to ensure that your child can participate successfully and feel valued for their contributions. Each child’s learning process may be different.

For example, if your child has sensory sensitivities, you might adjust laundry tasks to involve sorting clothes by color rather than texture. If your child has mobility challenges, consider assigning chores that can be completed while seated, such as folding towels or organizing drawers.

Providing necessary tools and support

To set your child up for success, make sure they have access to the tools and resources needed to complete their chores effectively. This includes age-appropriate equipment, clear instructions, and ongoing support and guidance.

Invest in child-sized cleaning tools, such as smaller brooms, dustpans, and gloves, to make tasks more manageable for little hands. Provide visual aids, like chore charts or step-by-step guides, to help your child understand and remember their responsibilities.

Most importantly, be available to offer support and encouragement as your child learns and masters new tasks. Celebrate their successes, no matter how small, and approach challenges with patience and understanding. By creating a positive and supportive environment, you foster a sense of pride and accomplishment in your child’s contributions to the family.

Start Small, Celebrate Big

Remember to start with simple tasks for younger children and gradually increase complexity as they grow. Celebrate their successes, no matter how small, to maintain motivation and build self-esteem. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can help your children develop a strong work ethic and a sense of belonging within the family.

What chores will you introduce to your kids this week?

Choose one or two tasks that align with your family’s values and your child’s abilities, and watch them grow in confidence and capability as they contribute to the household.

Next Steps

Ready to get started with age-appropriate chores? Download the Hire and Fire Your Kids app today and see how fun chores can be for each age group and chore complexity level. Find the perfect chores for your child.

Downloadable Resource:
Get our free checklist of age-appropriate chores to keep your family organized and on track.

Explore Chore Guides

Share this page with other parents to help them find the right chores for their kids.

Share on Facebook | Tweet