Age Appropriate Chores for All Kids

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Chores

“That’s too hard, Mom. I can’t do it.” Is this a familiar response when you ask your kids to fold laundry or set the table? Some chores might be too much for kids at certain ages so it’s important to know what tasks are within your child’s reach. The importance of introducing chores at the earliest age possible will teach your kids to take responsibility and help them manage day-to-day activities.

 Here are some guidelines for age appropriate chores for all kids. 

Ages 2 to 3

You are probably thinking, “What can my 2 or 3-year-old do in terms of chores? You’d be surprised. It is important to lay the groundwork when children are young and slowly teach them the meaning of responsibility. Here are few ideas for this age range:

  • Help set the table
  • Pick up toys
  • Fold wash cloths
  • Dress himself or herself

Ages 4 to 5

By ages 4 – 5 most kids are interested in helping out mommy and daddy with chores around the house. At this age, it might be a good idea to introduce a chore chart to promote rewards for certain behaviors. Try assigning these chores at this age:

  • Straighten books on bookshelf
  • Help clean room
  • Use a small broom to sweep kitchen
  • Clean table
  • Put away certain dishes
  • All previous chores

Ages 6 to 7 

By ages 6 – 7, kids have a general understanding of what is considered messy and clean. Don’t be afraid to hold back and assign chores that might be a little challenging. This will promote a greater sense of responsibility and help kids feel they are accomplishing something by contributing to the household. Here are some chores to consider in this age range:

  • Wash light loads of dishes
  • Unload dishwasher while parent is helping put up dishes
  • Take clothes out of dryer
  • Fold laundry
  • Wipe down surfaces
  • All previous chores

Ages 8 to 9

Kids are starting to move toward the tween years during this time and are generally carrying a full workload at school. By assigning more challenging chores during this period, you pave the way for kids to understand time management. Consider these chores during these ages:

  • Vacuum carpets
  • Help with meal prep
  • Empty trash
  • Dust
  • Help with pet care
  • All previous chores

Ages 10 to 12 

During these ages, many kids are able to handle adult responsibilities. In fact, you can delegate some tasks that you know you need to complete, but may run short on time. It is time to view your kids as your chore equals! Some chores to assign:

  • Mow the yard
  • Mop floors
  • Attempt making easy meals
  • Tidy the garage
  • Watch younger siblings
  • Wash basic laundry
  • All previous chores

What chores do you assign your kids? What works? What doesn’t? Scottsdale Mom’s Blog would love to hear your experiences!  

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Rudri Patel
Rudri Bhatt Patel is a former attorney turned freelancer writer. Prior to attending law school, she graduated with an M.A. in English with an emphasis in creative writing. She is the managing editor for The First Day and her work has appeared in The Washington Post, Brain, Child, The Huffington Post, The Review, Review Role, Reboot, The Mid and elsewhere. She writes her personal musings on her blog, Being Rudri, and is currently working on a memoir that explores Hindu culture, grief and appreciating life’s ordinary graces. She enjoys reading, writing and running. Rudri has lived in the Valley since 2009 with her husband and daughter (9). You can find Rudri on Twitter, Facebook and Being Rudri.