Let's face it, we parents have a lot of responsibilities. Whether you are a working or a stay-at-home parent, you don't have time to keep up with all of the household chores. It's time to train your little ones to help out around the house!
Start small. Let them have just a couple responsibilities, depending on their age. Giving them a job makes them feel important and creates a sense of pride. Your family is a TEAM and truly, "Together Everyone Achieves More." Give them guidance and be patient. Then sit back and enjoy more time together as a family!
So how do you get started? First, decide which chores your child can complete with minimal help from you.
Print out a FREE MacKid chore chart for each child. Either laminate them or place in a clear plastic page protector and use dry erase markers so they can be used over and over! Hang them in the laundry room, the fridge, or anywhere they can easily see them.
Print out a FREE MacKid chore chart for each child. Either laminate them or place in a clear plastic page protector and use dry erase markers so they can be used over and over! Hang them in the laundry room, the fridge, or anywhere they can easily see them.
Decide whether or not you will give an allowance. There are certainly pros and cons to paying for these chores to be completed, but it does add an extra responsibility for you, the parent.
Ready to get started? We've started the ball rolling with the following list of age appropriate chores. Feel free to embellish or pick and choose as you see fit.
TODDLERS
Yes, they really can help around the house! Here are some ideas:
- Pick up toys: You can make this easy for them by giving them a basket or bin and asking them to place all the toys in that container.
- Assist in making the bed: Depending on their age and ability, you can have them help you pull the sheets and blankets on properly, or maybe they can just place the pillow neatly on top.
- Put dirty clothes in a hamper: When it's bath time, they can easily throw their dirty clothes into a basket for you.
ELEMENTARY AGED
These kids can be given more responsibilities. You may just be surprised at how proud they are of their work!
- Pick up room: If you provide containers or shelving, there's no reason why they can't pick up their own things and put them away.
- Gather dirty laundry: and bring it to the laundry room. They're capable of sorting, too!
- Set the table: Teach them proper place settings while they're young.
- Sweep the floor: Show them how to use a dustpan, too!
MIDDLE - HIGH SCHOOLERS
These responsibilities are more self explanatory:
- Cooking: Some children will be capable of making an entree while others you want to keep out of the kitchen! You know your children, so assign what works for your family.
- Empty/load dishwasher: Supervision is necessary if you have sharp utensils or breakable dishes.
- Take out the trash: They should be able to take it to the outside trash can.
- Mop/vacuum: Train them now how to do this!
- Car pool: Once they have their licenses, your high schoolers can even help you run your younger children to/from school and activities! That's why it's important to start giving your children responsibilities when they're younger.
Click HERE to download our adorable chore chart so you can start using it in your own home.
