I know what you’re thinking!! What age can children start doing household jobs? And what kinds of jobs are appropriate for different age groups?
Well don’t despair I’ve got the answers!
18 mos-3 years: “This is the ‘me do it myself!’ age, so take advantage of it!” “You'll rarely need to ask a preschooler twice if they'd like to do a big-kid job for you.” Be cautious against giving this age group a chore that parents might feel compelled to follow behind them and redo in their footsteps: “That would be a quick way to teach them that they might as well not help at all,” “Let them do one part, like hold the dustpan while you sweep.”
4-5 years old: Kids are entirely capable of doing some tasks alone, but many children this age won't remember without prompting. "Hint: tell them to tell you when they're done. "This will help to keep them on task, and let you know to check that it was done the way they've been taught."
6-8 years old: Don't be afraid to give these children daily chores, "Once a week seems easier, but actually building habits is easier if something needs to get done every day. So a repetitive kitchen chore or pet care can be a great choice,"
Remember what is work for you is play for a child. They love to mimic you and these are the best lessons a parent can teach.
