No one really likes doing household chores, unless they’re genuinely the type who likes to clean and organize. However, they are undoubtedly important routines a household should have in order to keep their spaces neat and tidy. Adults normally take on these tasks even if they’re time-consuming and tiring, but the topic is slightly different when it comes to involving the young ones.
It’s normal for some parents to want to exclude their children from doing the household chores as they intend to allow them to enjoy their childhood, essentially letting the “kids be kids.” On the other hand, some might find that children aren’t as capable as adults especially when most children prefer to get the task done quickly, leading to less satisfying results. These reasons are valid, but some parents might be overlooking the positive benefits of giving kids chores such as letting them learn about responsibility, teamwork, and having time management.
While household chores are normally assigned to older children, what about toddlers?
According to the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP), research suggests that there are benefits to including chores in a child’s routine as early as age 3. These benefits mentioned include being able to develop higher self-esteem, to become more responsible, and to develop the ability to deal with frustration, adversity, and delayed gratification better. Other benefits also include:
learning important time management skills
developing good organizational skills
setting a good foundation for independency in the future
learning how to efficiently balance work and play from a young age
accepting their responsibilities in the family
Of course, AACAP reminds parents that it's also important to remember that children’s attitudes vary—some may be more eager to help, while others aren’t. However, the main goal of giving age appropriate household chores to your young ones is to teach them to follow directions as well as to help them see their task through to the end.
But how should you introduce chores to your child, especially to a toddler?
Start with small, manageable tasks and focus on that. If you can, make these tasks more fun and cooperative by incorporating songs or mini-games. It's also a good idea to create a reward system like having a star chart for example, to encourage good behavior's and to track their progress. When they're finished with a task, don't forget to praise them for a job well done. Finally, be a good role model! Children are visual-learners too and will easily learn to do things when they see other members of the family doing the same.
With that out of the way, it's time to get to the specific chores appropriate for toddlers.
18 to 24 month-Toddlers
Toddlers in this age range are naturally curious about their surroundings, so take advantage of this by helping them learn when they can pitch in and help in their own small way. It's alright if they aren't able to do it right the first few tries or that you'll have to redo their chore; what's more important is that they are able to grasp the idea of following directions and finishing a task all the way to the end.
Pick up toys in their playroom or in the area one by one and put them back in their proper places after playtime.
If you have pets, have your toddler feed them or give them water with guidance from an older sibling or parent, of course.
Put dirty clothes in the hamper.
Put away books after reading time or after use.
2 to 3-Year Old Toddlers
By this stage, toddlers are able to complete simple tasks around the house. This is also the age at which they become more interested in doing things themselves and they may also find the idea of helping their parents or older siblings one of the most exciting activities they are able to do now. As mentioned previously, children learn more about their environment by observing how others do something. This is a great developmental stage to start with teaching them to become responsible. Despite their newfound independence however, they still need supervision and guidance.
Put their toys away after playing with them.
Involve them in simple cooking tasks like having them fetch the ingredients, or letting them stir ingredients in a bowl.
Help a parent or older sibling with the laundry by moving clothes from the washer to the dryer, and from the dryer to a basket.
Neatly arrange their toys and stuffed animals in the bedroom.
Prepare clothes for the next day by giving them options from their closet and then allowing them to choose.
Wipe spills from the table.
If you have plants inside the house, allow your toddler to water them with a small watering can.
Help hand-wash non-breakable dishes.
Put trash in the trash can and sort each into the appropriate bin.
Help prepare simple snacks and meals by washing fruit, plating small finger foods like crackers, etc.), and sorting vegetables.
Help set up the bathroom for their bath time by getting their clean towel, toys, and washcloth.
Preschoolers (Ages 4-5)
At this stage, their sense of responsibility has grown. They will even be able to do some chores without the need for supervision.
Make their bed.
Setting the table as well as helping with cleanup and clearing it at the end of meals.
Help walking the family dog or tending to other pets with help from an older sibling or parent.
Help bring in light groceries.
Sort laundry from whites to colors before washing.
Folding their clothes and then putting them away in their respective drawers.
Replace toilet paper rolls.
It can be a task to get your kids to help out in household chores and most times, you'll definitely need to have patience and understanding. While chores are a great way of integrating a bit of awareness when it comes to being responsible, it's also another activity that may be made fun when you also realize that it is actually a way for you to bond with your young one too.
Comments