Age Appropriate Chores

These are general guidelines that we hope you will find helpful. Keep in mind that not all children will be able to do the same chores at the same age. Let the children follow their skills and interests as much as possible. Give them feedback along the way to help their learning. Note what aspects they did well, share helpful hints, make it fun (turn on music or sing together when doing chores).

For young children their “helping out” may be more time consuming and more work for you. However remember you are laying the groundwork for children to experience “feeling good by helping” and an understanding that family members work together to help their household run smoothly.

9 – 24 months

• Clean table and counter surfaces with adult (give child a small towel & water spray bottle).
• Clean yard (collect trash and toys, sweep with child size broom etc.).
• Do simple errands (“Bring the diaper, please”, “Throw this in the trash, please,” etc.).
• Help make beds - (begins with handing the pillows to adult).
• Help with grocery shopping (putting items in basket and on check-out counter, handing things to be put away at home).
• Put dirty clothes in hamper.
• Water plants (with pre-measured amounts).

2 years and up

• Carry groceries in from car (give child one light item or a small bag).
• Clean up what they drop after eating.
• Clear own dishes from table.
• Do simple errands (“Take this towel and put it in the hamper”, etc.).
• Dust with socks on their hands.
• Fill pet’s food dish.
• Hang clothes on hooks.
• Help make the bed (pull covers up).
• Help pick up the living room.
• Mop a small area.
• Pour from a small pitcher.