There is a multitude of chores for kids out there. The challenge is deciding which chores to delegate to each child. There are many benefits to giving your kids chores. For one, it encourages them to pitch in and finish tasks that help the household. By doing chores, kids can build their self-esteem and independence that will benefit them well into adulthood. There’s no better time than the present to delegate tasks to kids and give parents a little relief when it comes to cleaning the home.
Best Age-appropriate chores for kids
With so many chores to get done, it can be challenging to figure out how to divide and conquer amongst your family. First, let’s start with your child’s age. Then, be realistic about their abilities and maturity. If you like this checklist of chores, subscribe below to get a copy for free.
Kids chores by age
Believe it or not, once children reach toddlerhood there are small chores they can accomplish. Assigning these tasks may require patience and motivation, but your efforts will be rewarded.
List of chores by age guide
Check out a variety of chores kids can do based on their age. Reminder: all chores should be done with appropriate supervision. Take into account your child’s abilities and maturity level.
Toddler chores (Ages 2 and 3)
- Pick up and put away toys
- Take dirty clothes to the laundry basket
- Put away clothes
- Fill pet’s bowl with water and food
- Help clean up spills
- Dust with rag
Preschool chores (Ages 4 and 5)
- All previous chores
- Make the bed with minimal help
- Take out recyling
- Wipe counters
- Water plants
- Weed the garden
- Wash dishes with supervision
- Wipe bathroom sinks and counters
Elementary kids chores (Ages 6 – 8)
- All previous chores
- Fold and hang laundry
- Sweep
- Vacuum
- Mop
- Put away dishes from the dishwasher
- Help with food preparation
- Get the mail
- Take out garbage
Ages 9 – 11
- All previous chores
- Wash dishes
- Was family car with supervision
- Make simple meals
- Rake leaves
- Learn to use the washer and dryer
- Clean bathrooms
Ages 12-14
- All previous chores listed above
- Clean out fridge and freezer
- Make more advanced meals
- Mow the lawn with supervision
- Change the vacuum bag
- Clean the mirrors and windows
Should kids get paid for chores?
Deciding if kids should get paid is a personal decision for each family to decide. There are arguments for paying and not paying for chores. Ultimately you will have to decide what works best for your family.
Paying for chores
- Paying kids for chores teaches them the concept of work which could lead them to discover entreprenuership.
- Gives kids an understanding of what it means to earn something.
- They can learn how to save money and work on financial management at an early age.
- It can motivate kids to do chores and it’s easier to get them to do so.
Not paying for chores
- Kids may expect to get paid for every task they complete.
- Kids may forgo doing chores because they don’t “need” money at that moment.
- If you pay kids for chores, they may see this as a job instead of tasks that have to be done regardless.
Download Free Chore Chart Checklist for kids
Download this printable chore chart for kids now. Subscribe below or shop here. Print one at home, laminate and use more than once to track your child’s progress. It’s simple, fun, and organized!
More Cleaning Hacks
- Cleaning Bingo Game – A fun way to movitate your kids to clean the house.
- Weekly Cleaning Schedule – Keep track of cleaning tasks for the week in this easy-to-use checklist.
- Declutter Challenge – Have a tidy home in 31 days! Get rid of the clutter!
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