Sharing the load at home with your kids could be a game changer! Assigning age appropriate tasks not only teaches responsibility but it also fosters a sense of accomplishment and independence in kids. I'm not suggesting that you hand a bottle of Windex to your 2 year old but maybe you could give them a damp cloth and reward the child that comes back with the dirtiest cloth. Over here at Rocking Chair Diaries we are all about maximizing productivity with our uniquely designed planner, The Motivated Mom Planner, but also by utilizing our little minions, I mean KIDS.
Let's take a look at some more ideas for kids to contribute around the house that suits each of their developmental stage.
Preschool (Ages 3-5)
Putting away toys - I find this is easier when you create an easy to duplicate organization system. For example: categorized storage cubes or cars, blocks, play food, barbies, Nerf guns, etc.
Feeding pets - This is something that you can show them a few times and they should be able to master!
Sorting laundry - Matching socks or categorizing each family member's clothes into piles
Dusting - Provide them with a wet cloth or a feather duster and set them loose.
Stocking toilet paper in the bathrooms - It may take them 30 minutes but, hey, at least they are entertained.
Elementary (Ages 6-10)
Making the bed - Straighten the sheets and arrange the pillows (it doesn't have to be perfect)
Emptying the trash - If the kitchen trash is too heavy for them to take out, maybe ask them to empty to bathroom trash or carry empty boxes to the dumpster outside.
Sweeping - Using a broom is a learned skill and the earlier they start learning, the sooner they will be efficient at it.
Vacuuming - This is even easier than sweeping and I have found that kids love to use a vacuum!
Putting their laundry away - This right here is going to change your life!
Middle School (Ages 11-13)
Doing the laundry - They may need a stool but they are very capable at this age. Loading and unloading the washing machine and dryer then folding clothes is not too much to ask.
Cleaning bathrooms - Wiping down sinks, counters, and mirrors is a quick and easy task to add to their, now growing, list.
Yard work - Halleluiah!! This Mama hates yard work! Raking leaves, weeding, or mowing the lawn are certainly appropriate for kids this age.
Cooking simple meals - Preparing basic dishes like sandwiches or pasta with guidance can build culinary confidence.
High School (Ages 14-18)
Managing personal spaces - Keeping their own rooms clean and organized should be an expectation.
Cooking full meals - Preparing more complex meals and handling kitchen equipment gives them the opportunity to experiment with cooking and nutrition.
Deep cleaning tasks - Cleaning kitchen appliances, scrubbing base boards, or washing windows teaches them to maintain a clean living space (I know plenty of adults who could use this training as well).
Grocery shopping - Give them a list and a budget and let them handle grocery shopping. This teaches money management and decision making.
By tailoring chores to your child’s age and abilities, you not only help them develop crucial life skills but also create a sense of teamwork within the family. Remember, the goal is to make chores a positive experience that teaches responsibility while also fitting seamlessly into your family’s routine.
