Every parent should assign their kids household chores. When kids do chores from an early age, they learn valuable lessons they can’t pick up anywhere else. This resourceful guide to age-appropriate chores for kids shows parents which tasks are best suited for which age group.
A Guide to Age-Appropriate Chores for Kids
Ages 7-11
Children should start doing chores around the age of seven. By this time, they’ll most likely be in the first grade and can take on more responsibility. There are a ton of age-appropriate chores for kids in this age group that’ll take some stress off parent, and that kids will enjoy doing. For example, kids between the ages of seven and 11 can help their parents wash dishes. Kids in this age range can dry the dishes as their parents unload the dishwasher.
Another task kids this age can take on is washing the family car. Parents should show their kids how to wash the car correctly before assigning this task. Adults should show kids all the appropriate tools, including a hose and sponge. Children should also know how to clean the car’s interior like a pro. Make sure kids vacuum the entire car and clear out all the junk inside. With you helping them out, your kids will be car cleaning experts in no time.
Ages 12-15
Parents know all too well how difficult the preteen/teenage years are when raising a child. During this period, children often try to establish their own sense of independence. One way to help them do that is to give them more challenging chores to do. Children between the ages of 12 and 15 should try babysitting younger kids. Have them ask other family members or neighbors if they can watch their child while they run a few errands. Parents, feel free to supervise the first few times. Babysitting is a huge responsibility that teenagers should be able to handle. Kids in this age group could also help with laundry and mow the lawn when necessary.
Ages 16-17
Most parents know that, by the time a child reaches the age of 16, they don’t want to listen anymore. Most 16-year-olds want to be treated like an adult. You can usher them into adulthood by assigning them more serious chores. Most kids have their license by the time they are 16. Show your children you trust them by giving them duties centered around driving. Let them do the grocery shopping for the house and pick up their younger siblings from soccer practice. Kids in this age range should be able to handle that responsibly. Kids aged 16 to 17 should also prepare a family meal once in a while. Your children should know cooking basics before they head off on their own.
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