Assigning chores is a great way to teach responsibility to children. It teaches them the value of contributing to a household, as well as inculcate important moral values like selflessness, cleanliness and helpfulness.
But getting your kids to keep the house spick and span is not just so you can lighten your domestic burden.
One of these days, your kids will move out and have their own houses, and even families and children of their own.
Being used to cleaning and tidying up ensures that they know all about how to organise their living spaces.
After all, a tidy home is important for optimal happiness.
Assigning children age-appropriate chores helps them learn important life skills.
However, determining the appropriate age for children to start pitching in with household chores can be a challenging task for parents.
In this article, we will discuss guidelines for involving children in chores based on their age.
Toddlers and Pre-schoolers
Toddlers and pre-schoolers between the ages of 2 to 5 years old will benefit from small and easy chores. These can be as simple picking up after themselves.
At this young age, children are eager to explore and imitate their parents’ actions.
So, it can be beneficial if you can do their chores together with them as a form of demonstration.
At this age, chores not only teach kids basic organisation skills but also foster a sense of responsibility.
However, don’t expect toddlers to be making any sort of dent in the housekeeping responsibilities.
They are still at the practicing age. To help them get used to the idea of chores.
You should avoid letting them handle cleaning tools or cleaning agents.
Remember to supervise and cheer them on at this age as a form of positive reinforcement so they will enjoy doing chores as they get older.
Here is a list of chores you can consider assigning for kids who are of preschool age:
- Putting away toys
- Picking up after themselves
- Putting dishes in the sink
- Putting away their shoes
- Sort laundry/match socks
- Helping make their own beds
Primary School
As children enter their primary school years, typically between the ages of 6 and 12 years old, they can handle more responsibility.
Your child would have developed all of their fine and gross motor skills.
This means that you can involve your kids in more household chores.
But of course, you still need to supervise and give them instructions.
Kids benefit a lot from chores because it builds confidence and self-esteem.
They also will get a lot of exercise and movement, and familiarising with techniques and tips.
At this age, don’t hesitate to give plenty of encouragement.
Here is a list of chores you can assign for kids when they enter primary school age:
- Washing and putting away the dishes
- Fold clothes
- Cleaning their own room
- Doing their own laundry
- Vacuum/mop some sections of house
- Put away groceries
- Clean up messes
- Take out the trash
- Watering plants
- Feed the pets
Teenagers
Once they reach their adolescence, your child would be strong enough to handle more challenging tasks.
Don’t hesitate to let them choose which chores they’re more comfortable with.
Build the momentum by asking for their help and slowly handing over the reigns as time goes on.
Teenagers are capable of handling a wide range of household chores.
Chores at this age teaches your kids about independence and self-reliance.
They can take on responsibilities such as cleaning bathrooms, doing grocery shopping, and cooking meals.
Involving them in budgeting and managing household finances can also provide valuable life lessons.
Additionally, teenagers can be encouraged to take on personal responsibilities, such as doing their own laundry and maintaining their living spaces.
- Help washing the car
- Clean the toilet
- Help with cooking
- Weeding the garden
- Buying groceries
- Clean the house
- Deal with pet litter
A Reminder for Parents Regarding Chores
It’s important for parents to ease children into chores with patience and understanding.
Sticking to age-appropriate tasks ensures not only your children are able to do them, but also ensures their safety.
After all, some chores do involve the heavy of lifting objects or the use of electronic appliances.
Moreover, children especially toddlers, may not always complete tasks perfectly or as quickly as adults.
So, chores at these age ranges should be more about promoting learning and growth.
Offering praise and positive reinforcement can go a long way. Especially in motivating them to continue contributing to the household even in small ways.
Lastly, the division of chores should be tailored to each of your child’s abilities and interests.
Some kids excel at certain tasks but struggle with others.
So, encourage them to try out many chores so they can find their specialty and complete them with confidence.
Chores for Children
Household chores teach kids a plethora of valuable life skills.
They nurture responsibilities, help promote physical development, promote a sense of confidence and prepares them for the future.
By assigning age-appropriate tasks and providing guidance and support, parents can help their children develop a strong work ethic. Aside from helping lighten the load around the house.
With any luck, your children will be able to handle more than chores as they grow up.
Once they learn to breeze through Sunday spring cleanings, gruelling laundry days and epic decluttering sessions, there is no obstacle they can’t face as adults.
You’ve got this, parents!
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