How can you encourage your child to help around the house? What chores are age-appropriate? These are common questions most parents ask when they decide to involve their children more in family household tasks. Here's a list of age-appropriate chores that some families suggest based on their experience.

Your child might be ready for some tasks earlier or later than suggested below, and you'll surely think of other chores not included here, so feel free to share your experience with us in the comments below.

“One of the surest safeguards for youth is useful occupation. There is an indescribable value in work. Children should be taught to do something useful. From infancy, children should be taught to do things appropriate to their age and aptitude. Parents should now encourage their children to be more independent.” Child Guidance, p. 122

Age-Appropriate Chores:

Age: 1-2 years

1. Put dirty diapers in the trash

1. Put away toys

1. Help feed the dog

1. Put trash in the bin

1. Help clean up spills

1. Fetch something Mom needs

1. Help sort laundry

1. Put clothes in/take clothes out of the washer/dryer

1. Help sort clean laundry

Age: 3-4 years

1. Put away clothes

1. Sweep the floor

1. Fold socks

1. Help prepare meals

1. Put silverware on the table

1. Unload cutlery from the dishwasher

1. Clean up spills on the floor

1. Help harvest vegetables from the garden

Age: 5-6 years old

1. Help find items at the grocery store

1. Harvest vegetables from the garden

1. Weed garden beds

1. Make a sandwich

1. Rake leaves

1. Dust

1. Vacuum

1. Help with younger siblings

Age: 7-9 years old

1. Learn to use the oven and stove

1. Learn to use tools and make small repairs

1. Help prepare the shopping list

1. Clean the bathroom

1. Prepare snacks for school, outings, etc.

1. Prepare simple meals

1. Sew on buttons

1. Sort clothes and do laundry using a washer and dryer

Ages: 10-12

1. Plan and prepare meals

1. Iron clothes

1. Mend or sew clothes

1. Wash the car

1. Mow the lawn

1. Do simple home repairs

1. Organize and do household chores

After age 13, children can be significantly involved in household activities, taking responsibility for various aspects of chores, preparing meals independently, and other tasks that require more responsibility.

Remember that proper training and supervision are essential for your child to learn and enjoy helping around the house. And when they help you, show gratitude and appreciation with words of encouragement, a hug, and a loving kiss!

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