Giving chores to children teaches them responsibility and working for the greater good of the family. Family Education.com cites "The Complete Idiot's Guide to a Well-Behaved Child" and states that "the skills learned from having family responsibilities include time management, prioritizing tasks and general organizational abilities." Chores tied to allowances can teach valuable lessons on money management. Age-appropriate chores help teach children household skills, responsibility and that they can make important contributions to your family's life.
Ages 2 to 5
Even 2-year-olds can complete simple tasks with direction and supervision. Elizabeth Pantley, author of "Perfect Parenting & Kid Cooperation" writes that "most parents underestimate their children's abilities." With instruction, young children can take on such tasks as feeding a pet, watering plants, dusting, pulling weeds, making their beds, putting clothes in the hamper and helping to clean the table after meals.
Ages 6 to 9
Once your child can read, write down what chores are expected of him and when. A daily chore chart is a good reminder. Children ages 6 to 9 are ready for more responsibility, but still need reminders and specific instructions. Tell them exactly what you expect from them. For example, if you want the basement cleaner, a specific chore would be to "put all the toys into the toy bins." Children this age can tackle sweeping the floors, vacuuming, putting away clean clothes and setting the table.
Ages 10 and Up
Older children can handle several daily chores, in addition to weekly chores, such as bringing in the garbage cans. Children ages 10 and older still need reminders, but it is a good idea to tie their chores to another activity. For example, they can watch television--after they walk the dog. Children this age can also handle emptying the dishwasher and putting away the dishes, simple cooking tasks, cleaning the bathroom, washing windows or changing the bed sheets.
