Age-Appropriate Chores For Kids

April 14, 2023

Even though kids often say they don’t want to do chores, there’s a good reason for them. They have to learn how to be responsible for their actions and tasks. With the right approach and attitude, chores for kids can be used as a great opportunity to teach responsibility and take pride in their accomplishments— not to mention helping out mom and dad.

Age-Appropriate Chores For Kids

For many children, chores are considered a way to instill values such as work ethic and accountability. While some parents feel that assigning specific projects is beneficial for their children, others believe that children should understand that they are part of a larger family unit that has needs they themselves can fulfill. Holly Springs Pediatrics has compiled a list of age-appropriate chores for kids to help your household run smoothly.

Ages Two To Three

Chores for kids between the ages of two and three should be simple one or two-step jobs that focus mainly on easing your child into helping out around the house. Some of the best chores for children of this age include

• Putting their toys away
• Wiping up messes or spills
• Helping load the dishwasher
• Putting their dirty clothes in the hamper
• Filling up the pet’s food or water bowl
• Helping make the bed

During this stage in your child’s life, when asking them to help with chores, it is important to give them clear instructions and assist them when necessary. It is important to set healthy parameters around these tasks, so your child is eager to help rather than resentful. 

Ages Four To Six

As a child ages, their capacity to handle more complex tasks increases. Of course, your child is still young, so many of the chores at this age may still require light supervision. Some great chores for kids in kindergarten through first grade include

• Helping carry in groceries
• Walking the dog with supervision
• Putting away clean utensils
• Setting the table
• Getting the mail

At this age, your child may still be excited to help you around the house and complete tasks such as walking the dogs. Hold tight to these times because this enthusiasm won’t stick around forever!

Ages Seven To Eleven

As your child begins to enter the years of adolescence, they are ready to start taking on more intricate tasks around the house with little to no supervision. Chores for kids aged seven to eleven may include some of the following

• Vacuuming or mopping
• Cleaning their bedrooms
• Helping prepare dinner
• Putting away laundry
• Loading or emptying the dishwasher

Chores for kids at this age tend to become a lot less fun. Kids would much rather be spending time with their friends or engaging in other activities. However, chores are an important part of any young adult’s development, not to mention they help out mom and dad, too!

Ages Twelve Plus

By the time your child is twelve or older, they are ready to help you with just about any task around the house. All of the chores listed above are appropriate, along with the following

• Washing, drying, and putting away laundry
• Vacuuming the entire house
• Mowing the lawn
• Cleaning the bathroom
• Ironing clothes

At this age, your child should fully comprehend chores and why they are important. By helping out around the house from childhood to young adulthood, you will have instilled a great sense of responsibility for when they need to care for themselves. 

Chores for kids is a great way to get them involved in your household, all while teaching invaluable lessons. Holly Springs Pediatrics is committed to providing quality care to your kids at all times on a wide array of subjects. Do you have more questions on age-appropriate chores for kids? Call our Holly Springs, NC pediatric office at (919) 249-4700 to schedule an appointment or talk to a staff member.