Doing household chores teaches children responsibility and gives parents the opportunity to introduce concepts related to work ethics. Assigning children age-appropriate household tasks is important in the learning process, as is providing rewards or other incentives to the child for following your instructions. DrSpock.com recommends avoiding nagging or criticizing when asking children to do their chores and suggests turning on music to make completing chores a more positive experience for everyone.
Beginners (Ages 2 to 4)
Even little ones can learn the value of helping out by doing small tasks around the house. A child who is 2 to 4 years old may enjoy helping you dust with his own little feather duster. He can help set the table by placing a napkin at each place setting at dinnertime. He can also learn to put clothes into the hamper or clothes basket as well as put toys away before bedtime. According to Parenting.com, letting your toddler pitch in around the house helps build self-confidence and increase his vocabulary. It recommends asking your toddler to complete such tasks as washing vegetables, which practices hand/eye coordination.
Little Helpers (Ages 5 to 8)
Your child should able to clean up her own mess and should be able to make her own bed each morning before school from age 5. Clearing the table after a meal and putting the dishes into the dishwasher are also useful tasks that she can help you perform. Feeding the pets or watering the plants are key projects that she can begin to help the family with, because they introduce children to the concept of being responsible for another living thing.
Middle Schoolers (Ages 9 to 11)
Children in junior high may enjoy helping you wash and dry the car. Outdoor chores, such as raking leaves and watering the garden, are appropriate tasks for this age group. Having him watch and help you with the cooking process may pay significant dividends in a few years. Though not yet teenagers, children from ages 9 to 11 are perfectly capable of cleaning their own rooms. If applicable, have your child carry in firewood from outdoors for the fireplace.
Ages 12 and Up
Most kids older than age 12 are strong enough to take the trash out and to cut the grass. If the opportunity arises, teach your child to shovel snow. Asking her to help with laundry will ease the burden on Mom and Dad. Making small meals or snacks without supervision is appropriate for this age group. Cleaning up after dinner as well as loading and unloading the dishwasher are tasks for which parents will appreciate having help.
