There are many opportunities for children to help around the home. Chores help teach children responsibility, develop a strong work ethic, contribute to the family and make things run a little smoother.
Nashville author Kathy Peel suggests the following guide from her book, The Family Manager’s Guide For Working Women.
How Children Can Help
Preschoolers can:
- Make their beds (use comforters for easier handling and cleaning)
- Fold towels and washcloths
- Put away clothes in drawers
- Pick up toys
- Wipe off the front of large appliances using a spray bottle and a sponge
- Feed pets
- Match clean socks
- Scrub vegetables
Kindergartners can do all of the above and:
- Vacuum small areas with a lightweight, handheld vacuum
- Sweep the porch
- Straighten plastic dishes in a lower cabinet
- Dust furniture
- Wipe windows (that you’ve washed) with a clean blackboard eraser to keep them shining
Younger elementary kids can do all of the above and:
- Take out garbage
- Sweep stairs and walks
- Clean out the car
- Vacuum their own rooms
- Sort and straighten toys
- Empty the dishwasher
- Sort clothing for washing
- Clean off outdoor furniture
- Water a garden
- Set and clear the table
Older elementary kids can do all the above and:
- Clean bathroom mirrors
- Vacuum most rooms
- Clean toilets
- Clean countertops and the kitchen sink
- Mop small area floors
- Fold most laundry and put it away
- Pull weeds
- Clean pet areas
- Put away groceries
- Pack their own school lunches
- Rake leaves
Middle School kids can do all of the above and:
- Wash windows
- Mend clothes
- Wash car
- Change sheets on beds
- Do their own laundry
- Clean the bathtub
High School kids can do all of the above and:
- Clean out the refrigerator
- Defrost freezer
- Clean out and organize attic, basement, garage
- Do heavy yard work
- Clean light fixtures
- Wax car
- Learn to repair and maintain the card
- Fix dinner
Children are very capable helpers. Remember to praise and encourage children for their effort and work. Try not to jump in and take over their tasks. Be consistent with your family plan and remember, no one is perfect so be patient will your little helper.
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