by Michael Richards

Created on: August 25, 2009   Last Updated: August 27, 2009

When are children ready to start doing chores? This can vary based on a child's motor skills and understanding. It also varies based on what specific chores you want your children to do. In our household we have five boys; one two year old, two three year olds, a four year old and a five year old. All five of them help out equally to their abilities in doing chores. Obviously you can't expect as much out of a two year old as you would a five year old. The children really enjoy being helpful and we make it fun and interesting for them. Children are ready to start helping out with chores when they show an interest in mimicking what you do around the house.

In our household all of the children contribute what they can as far as chores go. At two years old our youngest is able to follow basic instructions well enough to complete simple chores. He can pick up toys, throw away trash and put his dirty clothes where they belong. Also it is not too much to ask of him to put his dish in the sink with some vertical assistance. He can help with carrying his clean clothes into where they belong. Helping put away groceries is another activity he can participate in. We can't expect him to do everything perfectly and we may need to give him a hand with some stuff however he is quite helpful.

Our three year olds can do everything the two year old can. We also have them make their beds to the best of their ability and assist if asked. They can sort through the toys and put them in the proper boxes. They can help with sweeping and mopping as well as a little bit of vacuuming with assistance. When mopping the children use only fresh water with no cleaning agents in it. They can sort their clothing and put their shirts and pants where they belong. They can put things around the house in the proper place (obviously keeping away from sharps). Putting their dishes in the proper sink by themselves and helping clear off the table is not too much to ask of them.

At three years old they can do a good amount of chores and know where things go and how to put them there. The four and five year old help with everything from above as well as rinsing plastic dishes and silverware. They can sweep and mop as well as vacuum themselves of course this is done with constant supervision. Washing off the tables is a good task for them. They take the bathroom trash out and empty it. Overall picking up of the house with slight direction can be a fun task for them. At four and five they can make their beds all by themselves. Besides cleaning up after themselves chores are generally optional for our children at their current ages.

We also on occasion have a pizza night where all of the children help in making the pizza. This gives them a fun project to do as well as giving them a head start on food preparation. They enjoy being helpful and enjoy helping out with supper.

When a child is old enough to follow basic instructions they are ready to start doing basic chores. If your child shows signs of interest in what you are doing around the house let them help out in a way that is suitable for their age.

Learn more about this author, Michael Richards.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.