It is never too early to teach a child the value of hard work and individual responsibility. Giving your toddler a few age-appropriate chores not only helps to instill these values in them at a young age, but it can provide an opportunity for some important bonding time between your and your child. You can get some much-needed housework done while still spending quality time with your kids. Children also enjoy feeling useful and learning to do new things. Nearly every child wants to do "grown-up things" and it will be several years before they realize that housework is something that most grown-ups wish they didn't have to do!

Of course, there are some chores that are simply inappropriate for toddlers. Any chores which could result in injury, such as dealing with sharp objects or machinery are obviously not appropriate for young children. Many chores will require your supervision, at least at first, and it may be more beneficial to have your child help you with small tasks as you do your own housework. You should give them easily-mastered tasks that will make them feel proud and self-sufficient rather than inadequate and frustrated.

Also, you can't expect that your toddler will do their chores the way that you would want them done. Don't expect your toddler to take any significant amount of housework off of your hands. While they can be a small help, assigning a toddler with chores is more about teaching them values and responsibility than it is about having an extra hand around the house. Often times, having your toddler's "help" will actually result in more work for you than it would just doing it yourself. They may spill water when attempting to water the plants or break a dish if asked to set the table, so have patience and don't set your expectations too high.

Probably the simplest and most important chores for young children involve learning to clean up after themselves. Have your toddler put away a toy they are done with before getting out a new one and let them take responsibility for disposing wrappers and other garage when they are done eating. Teach them to put their dirty clothes in the hamper or laundry room rather than throwing them on the floor at night.

Feeding a pet or watering plants are also chores that are appropriate for most toddlers. Your toddler can assist you with folding or sorting laundry or setting the table. Your toddler will more than likely love using a feather duster and there are typically very few things to break at their level.

Don't be too serious or nagging when it comes to assigning toddlers household chores. Making it into a game of fun activity will not only encourage your child, but will also make the experience more fun for you!

Finally, relish the eagerness that most toddlers will exhibit when asked to help with chores. This eagerness will quickly turn to stubbornness in the years to come. All the more reason to start encouraging housework at a young age!

Learn more about this author, Marie Gerber.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Appropriate chores for a toddler?
We want to hear your view. Write now!