Chores teach young children responsibility and give them a sense of purpose within the family structure. Being responsible for their own belongings teaches them to care for their items and keep them in good shape. Even young children can handle basic chores around the house. Start with one or two basic chores and gradually add more age-appropriate tasks as your child shows she is ready.
Bedroom Cleaning
Cleaning the child's bedroom is a chore that most children can handle at a young age. Create an easy organizational system for the toys and other belongings so your child knows where to put things as he cleans. A shelf with bins works well for toys because you can organize them by type. Place a picture of each type of toy on the corresponding bin so your young child can get them back in the correct spot. Designate a certain time of day such as right after dinner to clean up the bedroom, so it becomes a habit rather than a chore.
Laundry
Putting dirty laundry in the hamper is a task ideal for toddlers and older children. Whether you have a hamper in the child's room or a community hamper in the laundry or bathroom, teach your child to place her dirty clothes directly into the hamper. Sorting small items such as socks and underwear is another task that most kids can handle. Sorting is a good skill for young children to learn so that the laundry becomes an educational activity as well as a household chore.
Kitchen Duties
Depending on the age of the child, certain kitchen duties work well on the chore list. The youngest children can help place snacks and other food items on plates. Placing napkins on the table is another simple task for young children. Older toddlers and preschoolers can handle basic snack preparation such as mixing ingredients for muffins or other homemade treats. Assembling snack mixes, sandwiches and other snacks also works well for youngsters. Setting the table and having the child take his plate to the sink after dinner are also good additions to a child's chore list.
Pet Care
For homes with a pet, have your child help with caring for the anima;. If you have a fenced yard, your child can be responsible for letting out the family dog. Playing with the family pet is a chore that is entertaining for both parties and helps the pet stay healthy. Consider the dynamics between the child and pet as well as the child's age when assigning specific pet-related chores. Always supervise your child and the pet for safety.
Trash Duty
Taking out the trash is a task better left to older children and adults, but young children can help with their own smaller trash cans. If your child has her own trash can in her bedroom, have her empty it on a regular basis. Children can also help place plastic recyclables into the recycling bin.
