Age Appropriate Chores for Kids -Checklist Included

Are you looking for ways to get your kids involved in household chores?

Teaching kids to help around the house not only lightens your load but also teaches them responsibility and valuable life skills.

Here’s a handy guide to age-appropriate chores for toddlers, older kids, and teenagers.

Chores for Toddlers (Ages 2-4)

Toddlers are curious and love to mimic adults. Simple tasks can make them feel included and important.

1. Pick Up Toys

Encourage your toddler to put their toys back in the toy box or designated area.

2. Put Dirty Clothes in the Hamper

Teach them to place their dirty clothes in a hamper.

3. Help Feed Pets

Let them scoop food into the pet’s bowl with supervision.

4. Wipe Spills

Give them a small towel to clean up minor spills.

5. Dust Low Surfaces

Provide a duster or cloth to wipe lower shelves and furniture.

6. Water Plants

Supervise them as they water indoor plants with a small watering can.

Chores for Older Kids (Ages 5-10)

Older kids can handle more responsibility and complex tasks. Here are some chores suitable for them.

1. Make Their Bed

Teach them how to straighten their sheets and arrange pillows.

2. Set the Table

Show them how to place utensils, plates, and cups correctly.

3. Clear the Table

Have them clear dishes after meals and bring them to the kitchen.

4. Fold Laundry

Simple items like towels, socks, and small clothes are good starters.

5. Empty Small Trash Cans

They can collect and replace bags in smaller trash bins around the house.

6. Help with Cooking

Allow them to wash vegetables, mix ingredients, or help with simple baking tasks.

7. Vacuum and Sweep

Supervise as they use a lightweight vacuum or broom.

Chores for Teenagers (Ages 11+)

Teenagers are capable of handling more complex and independent tasks. This helps prepare them for adulthood.

1. Do Their Laundry

Teach them to wash, dry, and fold their own clothes.

2. Cook Simple Meals

Allow them to prepare basic meals like pasta, salads, or grilled cheese.

3. Mow the Lawn

With proper safety instructions, they can handle mowing the lawn.

4. Take Out the Trash

Responsible for taking out the trash and recycling on designated days.

5. Clean the Bathroom

Teach them to clean sinks, toilets, and bathtubs.

6. Wash the Car

Provide the tools and supervise as they wash the family car.

7. Babysit Siblings

If they are responsible enough, let them babysit younger siblings for short periods.

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This chore chart above, I used when my kids were younger and we had it for years.

Now I use printables like this one and frame them in frames like this. It goes with the clean aesthetic of our home.

Tips for Success

• Be Patient: It might take time for kids to learn how to do chores properly. Be patient and offer gentle guidance.
• Use a Chore Chart: A visual chart can help track their responsibilities and achievements.
• Offer Praise and Rewards: Positive reinforcement goes a long way. Praise their efforts and offer small rewards or incentives.
• Be Consistent: Regular routines help kids understand their responsibilities.

Getting kids involved in chores teaches them the importance of teamwork and responsibility.

Start early and adjust tasks as they grow, making sure to offer plenty of encouragement along the way.