I’m often asked, “How do you get your kids to do chores?” It brings back memories of being a kid, where chores were a regular part of life. I learned so many valuable lessons from them—responsibility, accountability and the understanding that nothing is simply handed to you. Despite having chores, I still had plenty of time to play and just be a kid.

In our home, we use responsibility charts and teamwork charts to instill those same values in our children. I want my kids to learn the importance of contributing to the household. Teaching them to take on responsibilities doesn’t just help keep our home running smoothly—it’s about preparing them for life. They’ll need to manage their time, care for their spaces, and work as part of a team in the real world.

Recently, after I broke my foot, I watched JJ and Isabella step up in ways I hadn’t expected. Over the past three weeks, they took on more responsibilities around the house and I saw their confidence soar. They realized that their actions had a direct impact on our family and how much it helped me. These skills—responsibility, accountability, teamwork—are essential for their future. Kids who grow up understanding the importance of responsibility are more likely to become successful, independent adults. And isn’t that what we all want for our children?

Let’s Talk Age-Appropriate Responsibilities

When assigning chores, it’s important to consider your child’s age and capabilities. Here’s a guide to help you get started:

• Toddlers: They can assist with simple tasks like putting toys back in bins, wiping up spills, and setting the table by carrying unbreakable items like napkins or plastic utensils.
• Preschoolers : Preschoolers can start making their beds, dusting, feeding pets, setting the table, picking up toys in the yard, putting their dishes in the dishwasher and helping with laundry by matching socks or carrying clothes to the laundry room.
• Elementary Age : At this stage, children can take on more responsibilities like emptying the dishwasher, cleaning the bathroom, tidying their rooms, vacuuming, doing their laundry, helping with meal prep, taking out the trash, and raking leaves.
• Preteens and Teens : Older kids can handle more complex chores such as washing the car, mowing the lawn, cooking simple meals, cleaning windows, and managing a weekly cleaning schedule.

Making Chores a Positive Experience

To ensure that chores don’t become a dreaded task, try these tips:

1. Lead by Example: Show your children that everyone, including you, has responsibilities around the house. When they see you handling chores without complaint, they’ll be more likely to do the same.
2. Make it Fun: Turn chores into a game or challenge. My kids love setting a timer to see who can tidy their room the fastest or playing their favorite music while we clean together. A spontaneous dance party always lightens the mood!
3. Offer Praise and Encouragement: Positive reinforcement is powerful. Praise your children when they complete their chores and offer encouragement when they struggle. Let them know their efforts are valued.
4. Use a Responsibility Chart: A visual chart can help kids keep track of their tasks and feel a sense of pride when checking them off (I share all my charts in The Balanced Home Mom Chat and The Balanced Home: A Mom’s Guide to Lasting Habits). You might even consider small rewards for a week of completed chores.
5. Teach the Value of Teamwork: Emphasize that working together as a family not only keeps the house clean but also creates more time for family fun and play. This fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose.
6. Be Patient: Remember, your children might not do things exactly the way you would, and that’s okay. It may take some time for them to get the hang of their new responsibilities. Be patient and provide guidance as needed. The goal is to help them learn, not to achieve perfection.

Conclusion

Involving children in household chores is an important part in teaching them responsibility, independence and the value of family teamwork. By assigning age-appropriate tasks and making chores a positive experience, you can help your children develop lifelong skills while also lightening your own load. And as they grow and their responsibilities increase, you’ll see their confidence and sense of accomplishment grow, too—a reward that’s well worth the effort.

Got questions, please let me know. Send me a DM over on Instagram here. 

Love,