It is helpful to introduce the idea of household chores early. I tend to think children are ready to manage a chore or two just because they are part of the family by three or four years old. Many young children are still willing helpers at this age and it’s good to capture that enthusiasm when starting chores. By four or five many of them are realizing you spend money and buy them things, another reason to have them start earning early.
Three to Five year old chores
- pouring the dog food in the dog bowl
- putting shoes in the closet
- hanging towels on the rack
- putting clothes in the hamper
- setting out silverware
- carrying plates to the sink
Six to Eight year old chores
- dusting furniture
- carrying out trash
- making a bed
- cleaning a mirror or window
- unloading dishwasher silverware
- sorting laundry
By eight years old, you can include chores that happen once or just a few days a week. You might also throw in opportunities to earn extra through bigger jobs like helping to clean out the garage or wash the car.
Nine to 12 year old chores
- vaccuming a level of the house
- loading and unloading dishwasher
- folding laundry and putting away
- cleaning a bathroom
Parenting by Dr. Rene 
2 thoughts on “Chores by Age”