The following chart gives some ideas of what is possible at what ages. These are merely guidelines—your child may do more or less. Knowing that learning life skills is a process, don’t expect perfection from him. The intent here is to give you ideas to try out in your family.
Age-Appropriate Chores for Children
Ages 2-3
- Begin to dress self
- Help make bed—at least pull covers up
- Pick up toys
- Hang clothing on hooks
- Carry laundry to and from laundry area
- Help fold towels
- Empty light trash cans
- Dust
- Carry plate to sink after meals
- Put silverware in dishwasher
- Help feed animals
- Help wipe up spills
- Dry unbreakable dishes
- Sweep
- Bring in newspaper
- Mop a small area
- Pour from a small pitcher
- Pull weeds
- Fetch diapers
- Help pick up living room
Ages 4-5
- Dress self
- Make own bed
- Clear dishes from table
- Set table
- Retrieve the mail
- Dust
- Water plants
- Sweep patio
- Wash floors, low walls with sponge
- Put away own clothes—put dirty clothes in hamper
- Help in kitchen—stirring, ripping lettuce, drying dishes
- Help carry and put away groceries
- Wash toys when needed
- Help rake yard
- Help wash car and clean interior
- Sort clean clothes by family
- member Sort dirty clothes by color
- Hang towels after bath Help load dishwasher
To be continued…
Life Skills For Kids: Equipping Your Child For The Real World
by Christine M. Field
I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth. ~ 3 John 4
Dad