Chores can actually be a harsh word and so many people have opinions about them. I personally feel like kids can be kids but still be productive parts of the household. The expectation of chores and helping out does not seem out of the realm of reasonable. Kids that learn how to help out in the household become more productive adults. Also, many of these tasks kids just need to learn so they can take care of themselves as they become adults and move out of the house. I roll my eyes every time I hear of 18-year-olds that move out and do not know how to do their own laundry.
Chores should be planned based on age and ability. My daughter is two and a half and just starting to understand helping out mommy. So, I plan to start having her do what she can. Here are some age appropriate chores for 2 to 3-year olds.
Cooking
- Pour Ingredients
- Put empty containers in the trash or recycle
- Empty silverware from dishwasher into drawer
- Remove own plate from dinner and take to sink
- Wash down table
Laundry
- Put dirty clothes in hamper
- Bring Hamper/basket to Laundry room
- Help put clothes into washing machine
- Help put clothes from washing machine into dryer
- Pull clothes from dryer into basket
- Help fold clothes
- Help put clothes away
- Pair and match socks (I tend to like mismatched socks)
Cleaning
- Dust lower surfaces
- Dry up spills
- Pick up toys
- Help sweep
Bedroom
- Make Bed
I do want to remind everyone though that age appropriate can be different for every child. Some children understand and are able to do different gross motor skills or fine motor skills faster than others. Some are slower, and some kids just have little interest in certain activities yet. For instance, my daughter is not at all interested in helping me cook yet. But she loves when I sweep and always wants to help.
You know your child and what they can and cannot do. You also know what they’re interested in and not. Play to their strengths. This also helps boost their confidence.
Sarah
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