Developmentally Appropriate Chores for Children

An important part of what we teach our children is the care for their home and belongings. In my Waldorf-inspired preschool program, we worked together to do the chores each day. Parents often ask me what chores are appropriate for their child. I complied this list so you could begin to consider how your children might help out around the home. 

I also encourage you to check out the video I did "Five Ingredients Needed for Children to Help Tidy"

Using story is a fantastic way to help encourage children to tidy. As part of our Storytime in the Schoolhouse membership, we offer monthly "pedagogical tales"--stories that teach children on some level. Last month our focus was on helping to keep the house tidy, particularly laundry. We heard the story of Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle by Beatrix Potter. You can watch the puppet show for free on our website.

Toddlers (2-3ish)

• Put toys away
• Dirty clothes into hamper
• Dust
• Mop
• Stack books on shelf
• Throw trash away
• Carry small pieces of firewood
• Fold washcloths
• Help make bed (with parent help)

Preschooler (4-5ish):

• Toddler chores plus...
• Make bed alone
• Help clear table
• Help wash dishes
• Put away utensils & dishes
• Water plants
• Sort laundry
• Fold laundry
• Wipe off counters
• Wipe up spills
• Straighten Bedroom
• Prepare simple snacks
• Weed garden

Early Elementary Ages (6-9ish)

• Toddler and preschool chores plus...
• Sweep
• Vacuum
• Put away laundry
• Match clean socks
• Rake the yard
• Put away groceries
• Empty dishwasher

Middle Years (10-13ish)

• Toddler, preschool, and early elementary chores plus...
• Wash car
• Prepare meals
• Wash clothes--using washer & dryer
• Take out trash & recycling

Older Children & High Schoolers (14+)

• Toddler, preschool, early elementary, and middle year chores plus..
• Mowing and weed eating
• Most all adult chores