Chores for kids – ideas for different ages

Setting chores for kids can teach them useful skills and give them something to be proud of – all while lightening your load. Linking chores to pocket money could also show the value of hard work.

To avoid any mishaps or frustration, it’s important to think carefully about the tasks you choose. Our chores list for kids offers plenty of ideas to get you started.

Chores can teach children how a household runs and make them feel they’re contributing.

It’s also useful to pick chores for kids by age. That way, they’ll have realistic goals to aim for. And it can make things fun, rather than a struggle. Just remember that each child is different, so you’ll need to go at their pace.

Giving little chores to pre-schoolers could help them develop good habits from an early age. So long as they’re carefully supervised, they can learn by copying you. Here are a few ideas:

Dusting the house and wiping up spills

Helping you load the washing machine

Clearing dishes away after eating

Weeding the garden

Filling a pet’s food bowl

Getting dressed by themselves

Washing their hands and following good bathroom hygiene.

As children become more independent, they may have the confidence for bigger tasks. Giving older kids responsibility for a specific chore can encourage them to take pride in their work.

At this age, you can encourage daily and weekly chores for kids such as:

Cleaning shared rooms, like the kitchen or bathroom

Cutting the grass

Sorting out snacks and light meals themselves

Helping younger brothers and sisters get ready for school

Cleaning parents’ cars

Ensuring bins are put out for collection on the correct days

Feeding pets at the right times.