A child who is allowed to do household chores will gain independence and confidence, as well as understand the value of hard work. Some parents choose to reward children with stickers, privileges or an allowance for doing chores around the house, while other parents consider it the child's responsibility to do chores. Whatever the approach, the chores should be within the child's appropriate range of development. Not only will this prevent frustration in both parent and child, but it will ensure that the chore is done efficiently.
2 to 3 Years
Beginning at age 2, a child may be able to accomplish simple tasks. Appropriate chores for a child age 2 to 3 may include picking up toys and books, cleaning up messes and taking laundry to the laundry room. He may also be able to assist a parent or older sibling with straightening up a room by moving or carrying light objects from one place to another.
4 to 5 Years
During the preschool years, a child will be able to handle tasks that are slightly more complex. She may be able to help make her bed, tidy up her room or feed and clean up after pets. She can also help with dusting, clearing the table and carrying in light grocery items. She will be able to help prepare and cook food with the help of an adult.
6 to 8 Years
The early elementary years allow a child to take on more household responsibilities. A child this age might put away his own laundry or help load and unload the dishwasher. He will also be able to empty small wastebaskets and take trash outdoors. He may be able to handle sweeping and mopping, and he can spend time reading short books to a younger sibling.
9 to 12 Years
A child between the ages 9 and 12 can be trusted to dust on her own, wash and dry dishes, clean the bathroom, rake leaves and pull weeds outdoors. She can also change sheets on beds and help an adult wash a car. Depending on the size and weight of the household vacuum cleaner, she may be able to vacuum a few rooms in the house.
13 to 17 Years
Teenagers are developmentally capable of doing almost any chore. In addition to anything else that needs to be done in the house, a teenager can clean the refrigerator and other large appliances, wash windows, prepare meals, do laundry and pack lunches. Depending on the child, he may be able to babysit a younger sibling. If he has a driver's license, he can go to the store and take younger siblings to school or other extracurricular activities.
