My young kids have chores to do at home. Yes, there is often complaining, but we think it’s important for them to contribute to the well-being of our family and home in this way. However, I struggle knowing how much my kids should be doing and what their capabilities are.
I have four kids between the ages of two and nine. Between conversations with friends and social media posts, I have discovered my kids can actually do more than I think! In case you also struggle with what your kids can do, or wonder if they’re able to do more — spoiler alert: they are! — I’m here to help.
And as a side note, I keep certain cleaning tools on hand in order to set them up for success. These include Clorox wipes, Swiffer dusters, Swiffer broom (the extension handle can be shortened for little ones), and step stools. Age-appropriate chores, here we come!
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Ages Two to Three
Mealtime :: The little guys are usually the most enthusiastic helpers; however, they are not the strongest or most coordinated, yet. At this age, they can put napkins on the table, they might be able to manage the silverware, but they can definitely clear the dirty napkins and throw them in the trash after dinner.
Bathrooms :: My youngest loves to throw things away, so I try to take advantage of that interest. The little ones can be responsible for cleaning off counters and throwing away trash. They can also clean up bath toys when bath time is over.
Bedrooms :: At this age, they can clean up their toys, put things away in their cribs (or beds), and pick up books and stack them.
Laundry :: Little kids love to watch what their parents and usually try to “help.” Channel that energy by directing them to put dirty clothes in their hamper. Putting away clean clothes is more of a challenge because they often want to empty drawers, but we’re working on baby steps here.
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Ages Four to Six
Mealtime :: Kids this age can do a lot! They can help set the table, clear the table after a meal, wipe off the table, and unload the dishwasher. A lot of our dishes are stored higher than where the kids can reach, but mine can put away silverware and the kid (i.e. plastic) dishes.
Bathrooms :: This age is perfect to introduce them to wiping off counters and the front of cabinets. My five year old is also responsible for wiping the step stool we keep in the bathroom.
Bedrooms :: These kids can tidy their rooms. More specifically, they can clean everything up off of the floor and other surfaces. They can also make their beds. My kids all have bunk beds, so “making the bed” is relative, but it’s something we can work on.
Laundry :: These bigger kids can put dirty clothes in the hamper, put away their clean clothes, sort dirty clothes, and bring their hampers to the laundry room. They can also start folding clothes. I’d start with something easy like washcloths and shorts.
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Ages Seven to 10
Mealtime :: With some guidance, and perhaps a step stool, your big kids can handle almost everything. This includes setting the table, clearing the table, sweeping the floor, loading the dishwasher, washing the dishes, and unloading the dishwasher. Now I wouldn’t expect your kids to do all of these things every night, but they are definitely capable of each of these jobs.
Bathrooms :: In addition to wiping cabinets and counters, these bigger kids can clean mirrors and wipe the toilet. Boy moms in particular know how gross the kid’s toilet can get. I passed this job onto my big boys as soon as I could!
Bedrooms :: In addition to tidying, these kids can sweep or vacuum floors and make beds.
Laundry :: Kids this age graduate to folding clothes and using the washing machine and dryer themselves. I have a really deep front-loading machine, so a step stool in the laundry room is helpful.
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Giving our children chores at home teaches responsibility, but also eases some of the household burden from parents, and helps them with important life skills, preparing them to one day be on their own.
Since my oldest is nine (almost 10!), I’m not sure how the chores and responsibilities will grow and change with my children. If you have older children, what jobs do you have them do at home?
