Is it Healthy to Give Kids Chores?

Well of course if you ask any parent the answer would be YES! It is all about teaching your kids about responsibility.  So what kind of chores should you give to your child? We have put together some ideas of age appropriate chores for your children.

Chores should not take hours. They should however teach our children about being disciplined and keeping to routines. Chores are the building blocks on which children learn responsibility and at the same time learning how to contribute a a family unit.

Ages 2 and 3

• Picking up their toys, with supervision
• Making their bed

Ages 4 and 5

• Keeping room tidy
• Help look after family pet 
• Dress themselves
• Putting toys away

Ages 6 and 7

• Brush their teeth
• Get ready for bed
• Help put laundry away
• Help with meal times
• Setting the table for dinner

Ages 8 and above

• Choosing clothes to wear
• Take responsibility for homework
• Take out trash
• Make bed
• Keep bedrooms tidy
• Take care of family pets
• Help to cook

Of course, remember these are guidelines and all children are different. By doing chores together, you can engage with your child. Always offer praise and try not to criticize. Remember - your children are learning! Make it a fun time and try to start chores at an early age. Introducing chores to a teenager who has never had to help around the house will be extremely challenging!

A great focal point for a family to work to as of course a reward or responsibility chart. Take a look at our My Growing Up Chart (4 years) and My Credit Chart (7+ years) for ideas on creating a focal point for your family.