All kids should help their parents with the running of the home within their ability. It’s good for Mum and Dad of course, but for the child it develops confidence, independence and a sense of self. After all – you don’t want them to move out of home at 18 and not be prepared for the big wide world.
Here is a very broad list of ages and what they can do! Remember that all children are different – and this list is very broad!
From Ages 2 – 3
- Pick up and put away their toys
- Swiffer the floor (get a mini swiffer – great fun for kids – of course don’t expect a great job!)
- Put clothes in the dirty clothes basket
- Put clothes away
- Keep their room tidy
Ages 4 – 5
- All above toddler chores
- Load the dishwasher (with supervision)
- Sweep
- Vacuum couch/ chairs/ cushions
- Set and clear the table
- Wash dishes (with supervision)
- Clean windows
- Wipe out bathroom sinks
- Match socks
- Fold tea towels
- Weed
Ages 6 – 8 Years
- All toddler and preschool chores
- Assist with meal preparation (grating cheese, following a recipe etc)
- Wipe bathroom sinks, counters, toilets
- Hang out laundry (if they can reach)
- Vacuum
- Collect the bin from the footpath
- Collect the mail
- Fold/hang laundry
- Sort washing
- Clean microwave
- Rake leaves
Ages 9 – 11:
- Make simple meals from scratch
- Take the bins to the footpath
- Be able to use the washing machine and dryer
- Clean toilets (hooray)
- Mop floors
Ages 12 – 14:
- Clean tub/ shower
- Make full meals/ meal plan
- Clean out fridge/ freezer
- Mow the yard
- Supervise younger children
Ages 15 and up:
By age 15 most kids should be able to do everything you can do – whether they do it or not is a whole other story! Remember that you have more chance if getting a child to do their chores if you help them up for the first few years. This gives them confidence and guidance. Once a child has become proficient at a job, it’s time to assign them a tougher task so they are always learning and growing.
Encourage your children to do things without being asked, especially picking up toys or items that someone may trip over. Teach safe practices from the start and be very careful when teaching them how to use the stove and microwave.
Don’t give up and do it yourself just because it’s easier that way – teach your children early and you will reap the rewards later on. It is a family’s job to keep a house neat and tidy – not just yours!
Jody Allen is the founder of Stay at Home Mum - The Secret to Living on One Wage: http://www.stayathomemum.net.au
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