Chores by Age

Ages 2-3: Building Basics with Guidance

At this age, toddlers are eager to mimic adults and enjoy helping. Focus on simple, fun tasks that allow them to feel accomplished.

• Help pick up toys and place them into a basket with assistance.

• Put dirty clothes in the laundry hamper with verbal cues.

• Dust flat surfaces with a sock or soft cloth on their hand.

• Watch as an adult models making the child’s bed, listening to step-by-step instructions.

• Place a favorite stuffed animal or blanket on the bed after it’s made.

• Wipe small surfaces, like chairs or walls, with a damp cloth or baby wipe.

• Gather bath toys and place them in a bin with an adult’s help.

Ages 3-4: Gaining Confidence in Simple Tasks

Preschoolers begin to build independence and can manage some tasks with minimal guidance.

• Wipe tables and counters using a damp cloth.

• Put toys into bins without assistance.

• Sort objects by category, such as toys with wheels or building toys.

• Carry a lightweight step stool to help reach higher surfaces.

• Check and refill pet food or water under adult supervision.

• Match and organize items, like emptying utensils from dishwasher

• Help tidy their own space by putting things back in their place.

Ages 4-5: Developing Independence

As children grow, they can handle more complex tasks while learning responsibility and teamwork.

• Clear plates and utensils from the table after meals.

• Clean up spills on their own.

• Use a small broom to sweep crumbs or debris.

• Help pull blankets and sheets while learning to make the bed.

• Organize their room by putting away toys and books.

• Feed pets with a scoop of food.

• Pull small weeds or help water plants in the garden.

• Carry mail or newspapers inside.

Ages 5-6: Building Self-Reliance

At this age, children can manage many household chores independently with minimal supervision.

• Set the table with plates, napkins, and utensils.

• Make their own bed, including arranging pillows, stuffed animals, and blankets.

• Fold simple laundry items, such as towels or socks.

• Vacuum small areas.

• Sweep and dry mop using child-sized cleaning tools.

• Wash windows and mirrors with help (an adult may need to spray cleaner).

• Sort clothes into laundry bins by colors or whites.

• Shake out rugs or mats.

• Feed and care for pets daily.

• Assist younger siblings by reading or telling stories.

• Assist in planting seeds or harvesting fruits and vegetables.

• Tend to a small garden with some guidance.

Ages 7-10: Mastering Responsibility

Children in this age range can handle tasks requiring more focus and independence.

• Remove and replace bed linens (may need help with fitted sheets).

• Fold and put away their clothes.

• Load and unload the dishwasher.

• Sweep floors and tidy up rooms, including their own.

• Take responsibility for cleaning their bathroom.

• Help plan shopping lists, carry groceries, and put items away.

• Monitor and care for pets, including feeding and cleaning up after them.

• Shovel light snow, rake leaves, or sweep outdoor spaces.

• Take out the trash and replace liners.

• Begin managing a garden independently, including planting and weeding.

Ages 10-12: Becoming Self-Sufficient

Pre-teens can take on a variety of tasks, preparing them for greater independence.

• Cook simple meals with supervision.

• Clean the kitchen and bathroom thoroughly.

• Use the washer and dryer with minimal help.

• Perform yard work, such as mowing the lawn with supervision or pulling weeds.

• Help with home maintenance tasks like cleaning windows or organizing shelves.

• Take pets for walks.

• Manage compost bins or recycling.

• Participate in more detailed grocery shopping, such as comparing prices or reading lists.

• Assist in meal prep by peeling vegetables, washing produce, or mixing ingredients.

Ages 12 and Up: Preparing for Adulthood

Teenagers can take on advanced chores and help maintain the household.

• Wash cars or clean outdoor spaces.

• Babysit younger siblings while an adult is at home.

• Cook meals independently.

• Perform light home repairs, such as changing a lightbulb or painting walls.

• Shovel heavier snow or mow the lawn unsupervised.

• Organize and deep-clean rooms.

• Plan and manage their own schedules for household contributions.

• Assist with budgeting, such as tracking household expenses or planning meals.

(Want to learn how chores help your kids thrive? Head over to Parenting Tool Chest and read my latest blog post: The Hidden Power of Chores: Raising Confident, Capable Kids.)