Kids are often so much more capable than we realize. While it can feel easier in the moment to do things yourself, letting your children help not only teaches them valuable life skills, but also takes tasks off your plate. (*If you want to learn more about implementing a work-for-pay system in your home, watch my Family Economy Webinar!) Giving kids age-appropriate chores helps them feel confident, responsible, and an important part of the family. Here’s a list of simple chore ideas broken down by age group to help you get started:
Ages 2–4: Small Helpers in Training
Toddlers and preschoolers love to help, and these early years are perfect for teaching basic responsibilities. The key is keeping tasks simple and fun while encouraging their natural curiosity.
- Get dressed in the morning
- Make their bed (even if it’s not perfect!)
- Clear their breakfast dishes
- Put away silverware (non-sharp items)
- Set the table
- Wipe/dust surfaces like counters and baseboards
- Sweep small messes or vacuum with a handheld vacuum
- Clean up spills with a towel
- Put away shoes
- Run to put things away for you
- Clean up toys in a small zone
- Laundry tasks: put dirty clothes in the hamper, sort colors for laundry, spray stains on clothes, match socks
- Refill toilet paper rolls
- Water plants
- Feed pets
- Clean trash out of the car
At this age, your child may need reminders and supervision, but they’ll quickly feel proud of their ability to help.
Ages 5–8: Growing Independence
School-aged kids are ready to take on more responsibility. They’re developing the coordination and focus to handle bigger tasks and they love opportunities to show what they can do. These kiddos can do all the tasks in the “small helpers” category, plus:
- Change small garbage bags
- Fold their own laundry
- Put away groceries
- Clean toilets
- Clean windows and mirrors
- Wipe down kitchen cabinets
- Wash and vacuum the car
- Mop floors
- Organize games, books, or toys
- Get mail or packages
- Walk pets
- Groom pets with supervision
- Rake leaves
- Weed the garden
These tasks help kids feel capable and contribute to the smooth running of the household. Be sure to praise their efforts and guide them as needed!
Ages 9–12: Independent Problem-Solvers
Preteens can handle more complex chores that require planning and follow-through. These tasks not only lighten your load but also prepare them for greater independence! Here are some ideas to add to their capabilities:
- Wash their own laundry
- Wash dishes by hand or load/unload the dishwasher
- Clean an entire bathroom
- Mow the lawn
- Organize a junk drawer
- Declutter their own room or shared spaces
- Prep for social gatherings (set up, clean up)
- Bake something simple
- Clean out the refrigerator
- Make their own appointments (with supervision or on speakerphone)
- Plan and make dinner
- Organize their own rides to places
- Put gas in the car or air in the tires
Encouraging kids in this age group to take on larger responsibilities helps build confidence and critical thinking skills.
Remember, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress. Allow your child to learn from mistakes, and celebrate their efforts along the way. The more they learn to contribute to the household, the more capable and confident they’ll become, and the less you’ll have to manage on your own!
If you are interested in more resources to encourage teaching your children to contribute in your home, you might like these: