{"id":2874,"date":"2023-06-12T01:26:05","date_gmt":"2023-06-12T05:26:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/31-age-appropriate-chores-for-your-kids-to-earn-money\/"},"modified":"2023-06-12T01:26:05","modified_gmt":"2023-06-12T05:26:05","slug":"31-age-appropriate-chores-for-your-kids-to-earn-money","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/31-age-appropriate-chores-for-your-kids-to-earn-money\/","title":{"rendered":"31 Age-Appropriate Chores for Your Kids to Earn Money"},"content":{"rendered":"<p> <a href=\"https:\/\/hop.clickbank.net\/?affiliate=infohatch&amp;vendor=J1R2C\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-10614 aligncenter\" src=\"http:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/profit-gen400px.png\" alt=\"Profit Gen\" width=\"400\" height=\"217\" srcset=\"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/profit-gen400px.png 400w, https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/profit-gen400px-300x163.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div itemprop=\"text\">\n<p><em>There might be affiliate links on this page, which means we get a small commission of anything you buy. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Please do your own research before making any online purchase.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong>There are many different types of families out there.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Regardless of the type of the family, they all have one thing in common\u2026 children.<\/p>\n<p>And the way we raise our children will impact the way they treat others\u2026 how they see themselves\u2026 and, ultimately, the effect they have on the world.<\/p>\n<p>The planet even<strong>.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The sky\u2019s the limit for children\u2026 they just need a good vehicle for getting them there.<\/p>\n<p><strong>That vehicle to get your kids as far as they can go is structure<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p><em>Yes. Structure. <\/em><\/p>\n<p>And structure starts with chores for kids.<\/p>\n<p><em>Yes, kids should have chores. <\/em><\/p>\n<p>We can\u2019t all be the laid back, \u201csuper chill\u201d mom or dad that does everything for their child.<\/p>\n<p>No good will come of it.<\/p>\n<p>Trust me.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Teach_Kids_Chores\"\/>Why Teach Kids Chores?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h2>\n<p><strong>Kids need to learn responsibility.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>They need discipline.<\/p>\n<p>And it is never too early to start.<\/p>\n<p><em>But mine are still so little. <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>My son has so much homework. <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Dance class takes up so much of her time.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Stop making excuses!<\/p>\n<p>First off, \u201clittle\u2019 is subjective.<\/p>\n<p>Sure, an infant can barely lift its own head, let alone put laundry away.<\/p>\n<p>But a toddler can do plenty.<\/p>\n<p>They understand more than you think.<\/p>\n<p>As for the school-age child with homework\u2026 news flash!<\/p>\n<p><em>Life is about balance.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>And they will learn that the hard way as they get older\u2026 unless you teach it to them first.<\/p>\n<p>Believe me\u2026 you will be a much kinder teacher than their first college professor or employer.<\/p>\n<p><em>Dance class? Gymnastics? Football?<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Ok.<\/p>\n<p>I get it.<\/p>\n<p>True talent should never be ignored\u2026 and passion shouldn\u2019t be quieted.<\/p>\n<p>But life is unpredictable and, well, broken bones happen.<\/p>\n<p><em>We\u2019ve all heard the one about the star athlete who never finished college to play football professionally\u2026 then lost everything when he tore his ACL. <\/em>It happens all too frequently.<\/p>\n<p>Kids need to learn how to shift gears, adapt and prioritize.<\/p>\n<p>Chores and the responsibility they bring are invaluable life lessons\u2026<\/p>\n<p>Learning how to turn those life&#8217;s curveballs into home runs is what we all want for our kids.<\/p>\n<p><em>Isn\u2019t it? <\/em><\/p>\n<p>We all want to raise a well-rounded, smart, respectful and kind human being.<\/p>\n<p>After all, the children <em>are<\/em> our future.<\/p>\n<p><em>Yes, I just went all \u201c<u><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=M9BNoNFKCBI\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" data-lasso-id=\"23895\">We are the World<\/a><\/u>\u201d on you<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p>Try watching the video without shedding a tear.<\/p>\n<p><em>I double dog dare you. <\/em><\/p>\n<p>But don\u2019t forget to click back here and keep reading because I am going to provide a killer list of age-appropriate chores for kids.<\/p>\n<p>And you will thank me.<\/p>\n<p>You won\u2019t only thank me because your kids will be the envy of all your friends\u2026 but because you\u2019ll have more time on your hands to spend with them.<\/p>\n<p>And quality time with loved ones is the dream!<\/p>\n<p><em>Right? <\/em><\/p>\n<p>There is never enough time. Life moves too fast for that.<\/p>\n<p>So let\u2019s get down to business.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-27\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Toddler_Chore_List_Chores_for_Kids_Age_2-3\"\/>The Toddler Chore List: Chores for Kids Age 2-3<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Check out this ultimate list of chores for kids by age.\" width=\"470\" height=\"352\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/chores-for-kids-toys.jpg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/chores-for-kids-toys.jpg\" alt=\"Check out this ultimate list of chores for kids by age.\" width=\"470\" height=\"352\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"> A simple chore for your toddler is cleaning up their toys when they&#8217;re finished playing with them. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>What a toddler is going to accomplish in their \u201cchores\u201d is not going to lighten your load very much, but it is the key time to start getting them used to the idea that they need to contribute their share. (as small as that share may be).<\/p>\n<p>First and foremost, I have to point out here that the <u><a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Toddler\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" data-lasso-id=\"23896\">definition of a toddler<\/a><\/u> is somewhat subjective these days.<\/p>\n<p>The original term was created by the medical profession to match a child\u2019s developmental milestones with their age. It was based on children ages 1-3.<\/p>\n<p>Today, preschool programs\u2026 daycares\u2026 children\u2019s clothing lines\u2026 they all casually refer to toddlers as 2-3 years old.<\/p>\n<p>Some will even include 4-year-olds under this label.<\/p>\n<p>And that is really all it is\u2026 a label.<\/p>\n<p>So here\u2019s the bottom line. <em>My bottom line. <\/em><\/p>\n<p>If your child is old enough to understand consequence and action\u2026<\/p>\n<p>If they know right from wrong (sort of)\u2026<\/p>\n<p>If they know what you are saying to them and can generally communicate, in one way or another, what they want to say to you\u2026<\/p>\n<p><strong>Then your child is old enough for chores.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>And being the oh-so-wise mom of four that I am, I believe that age starts at 2.<\/p>\n<p>So here goes.<\/p>\n<p><em>Oh, and keep in mind that many of the chores I\u2019ll be listing in each category can still work for older children (so use your judgment).\u00a0 <\/em><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-28\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_1_Clean_up_your_toys_when_you%E2%80%99re_finished_playing_with_them_Daily\"\/>Chore #1: Clean up your toys when you\u2019re finished playing with them (Daily)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>This is not rocket science. It is what it is.<\/p>\n<p>If the kids are playing Barbies for 20 minutes\u2026 <em>you know, just enough time to make it look as if Mattel\u00ae set a doll bomb off in your playroom<\/em>\u2026 they can\u2019t move onto the next thing until the toys are put back where they came from.<\/p>\n<p>Simple.<\/p>\n<p>Easy.<\/p>\n<p>Done.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-29\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_2_Put_your_Dirty_Clothes_in_the_Hamper_Daily\"\/>Chore #2: Put your Dirty Clothes in the Hamper (Daily)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>Again.<\/p>\n<p>Not difficult.<\/p>\n<p>Whether they can undress, or still need a little bit of help, they should <em>not <\/em>need help putting those dirty clothes into a hamper.<\/p>\n<p>Basket.<\/p>\n<p>Hoop.<\/p>\n<p>Whatever.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s a matter of dropping something.<\/p>\n<p>A 2 or 3-year-old can do this.<\/p>\n<p>They do it all day.<\/p>\n<p>Unintentionally, I\u2019m sure\u2026 but still.<\/p>\n<p>They\u2019ve got this.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-30\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_3_Fetch_stuff_from_Mom_and_Dad_Daily\"\/>Chore #3: Fetch stuff from Mom and Dad (Daily)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>Simmer down!<\/p>\n<p>Your kids are not dogs.<\/p>\n<p>I know this!<\/p>\n<p>But the concept isn\u2019t that different.<\/p>\n<p>Small children may not be able to actually set or clear the table just yet.<\/p>\n<p>They may not be able to clean the house with you.<\/p>\n<p>What they can do, however, is\u2026 well\u2026 get your stuff.<\/p>\n<p><em>Fetch if you will. <\/em><\/p>\n<p>Something as simple as, \u201cCan you please get mommy a diaper for the baby?\u201d or \u201cWould you please bring dad a dish towel\u201d can make a small child feel as if they are helping you in a big way!<\/p>\n<p>And they really are\u2026 in their minds.<\/p>\n<p><em>Baby steps, people. <\/em><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-31\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_4_Help_with_the_Dishes_Daily\"\/>Chore #4: Help with the Dishes (Daily)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>Okay!<\/p>\n<p>Stop.<\/p>\n<p>Before we get ahead of ourselves with all the \u201cwhat?\u201d and \u201chow?\u201d questions\u2026 let me be very clear.<\/p>\n<p><strong>A \u201ctoddler\u201d should not be washing glass dishes in the sink. <\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>A \u201ctoddler\u201d should not be loading knives into the dishwasher.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Got it?<\/p>\n<p>Good!<\/p>\n<p>I think we\u2019re in agreement on that.<\/p>\n<p>What a \u201ctoddler\u201d can do <em>under adult supervision<\/em> is this:<\/p>\n<p>Put his or her plastic bowls, plates, cups, utensils, etc\u2026 into the dishwasher<\/p>\n<p>Dry his or her plastic bowls, plates, cups, utensils, etc\u2026 with a dish towel<\/p>\n<p>Put the dishwasher tablet, pod, etc\u2026 where it goes in the machine (my kids <strong>love<\/strong> this one)<\/p>\n<p>Put his or her plastic bowls, plates, cups, utensils, etc\u2026 back in the cupboard, pantry, drawer. Whatever.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Here\u2019s a little tip:<\/strong> You should keep your kids\u2019 mealtime items in a place where they can reach them in the kitchen. This will encourage helping in a meaningful and safe way.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Happy family image\" width=\"449\" height=\"337\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/chores-for-kids-pajamas.jpg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/chores-for-kids-pajamas.jpg\" alt=\"Happy family image\" width=\"449\" height=\"337\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">One chore you can ask your toddler to do is ask them pick out their pajamas. Choosing their own bedtime attire will give them a sense of importance and pride. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-32\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_5_Pick_out_your_Pajamas_Daily\"\/>Chore #5: Pick out your Pajamas (Daily)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>By the age of 2, definitely by 3, a child should know where their pajama drawer is.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>They may even know where their other clothes are, but let\u2019s start small.<\/p>\n<p>Make it a nightly routine that they pick out the pajamas they want to wear while you draw their bath.<\/p>\n<p>Have them lay their pj\u2019s on their bed (or yours, depending on your routine) and then meet you in the bathroom.<\/p>\n<p>Choosing their own bedtime attire will give them a sense of importance and pride. It will make them feel like a \u201cbig kid\u201d\u2026 which is half the battle when getting them on board with chores.<\/p>\n<p>Chores for kids do not always have to feel like work.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>They can feel like fun\u2026 and that\u2019s ok.<\/p>\n<p>Great even!<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-33\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_6_Help_with_the_Garden_Weekly\"\/>Chore #6: Help with the Garden (Weekly)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p><strong>It is never too early to teach kids the importance of self-sustainability.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Growing your own food and <u><a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Compost\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" data-lasso-id=\"23897\">composting<\/a><\/u> is an empowering, and environmentally friendly, way to let your little one help out at home.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The garden is full of chore possibilities\u2026 here are three easy ones:<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-icon-list ugb-icon-list ugb-icon--icon-arrow ugb-86113b6 ugb-icon-list--v2 ugb-main-block\">\n<div class=\"ugb-inner-block\">\n<div class=\"ugb-block-content\">\n<ul>\n<li> Hand your child a watering can and set them loose on the plants and vegetables<\/li>\n<li>Have them hold the bowl or basket while you pick the fruits of your labor (pun intended)<\/li>\n<li>Keep a <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Utopia-Kitchen-Stainless-Compost-Countertop\/dp\/B015DRQ36E\/ref=as_li_ss_tl?&amp;hvadid=198108511374&amp;hvpos=1o2&amp;hvnetw=g&amp;hvrand=10180161436980208927&amp;hvpone=&amp;hvptwo=&amp;hvqmt=&amp;hvdev=c&amp;hvdvcmdl=&amp;hvlocint=&amp;hvlocphy=9052469&amp;hvtargid=pla-321022493901&amp;psc=1&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=dghchoresforkids-20&amp;linkId=9611ee0967656322e1ea014939e1f071\" target=\"_blank\">small compost pail<\/a> in your kitchen that your child can easily carry and empty into the garden regularly <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-34\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Kinder_Chore_List_Chores_for_Kids_Age_4-5\"\/>The Kinder Chore List: Chores for Kids Age 4-5<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Check out this ultimate list of age appropriate chore chart for kids.\" width=\"484\" height=\"363\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/chores-for-kids-school-clothes.jpg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/chores-for-kids-school-clothes.jpg\" alt=\"Check out this ultimate list of age appropriate chore chart for kids.\" width=\"484\" height=\"363\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"> Having the children pick out their school clothes will make them\u00a0feel important, having been included in what feels like such a big part of their daily routine. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p><strong>Whether in pre-k or kindergarten, children ages 4 and 5-years-old are capable of doing more than you think.<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>After all, chances are they\u2019ve been in school for a while now\u2026 meaning they\u2019ve had a teacher telling them to share, assigning them classroom duties and providing instruction in your absence.<\/p>\n<p>And I bet your kids listen.<\/p>\n<p>Not just because they have to\u2026 but <strong>because they enjoy helping<\/strong>!<\/p>\n<p>Truth.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Kids at this age are receptive to responsibility<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-icon-list ugb-icon-list ugb-icon--icon-star ugb-86b64d5 ugb-icon-list--v2 ugb-main-block\">\n<div class=\"ugb-inner-block\">\n<div class=\"ugb-block-content\">\n<ul>\n<li> They yearn to be a part of something.\u00a0 <\/li>\n<li> They listen. <\/li>\n<li>They are agreeable. <\/li>\n<li> They\u2019re cute. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><em>C\u2019mon. You know it\u2019s true. <\/em><\/p>\n<p>Keeping this in mind, here are my favorite chores for this delightful little group of heart-string tuggers.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-35\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_7_Pick_out_Your_Clothes_for_School_Daily\"\/>Chore #7: \u00a0Pick out Your Clothes for School (Daily)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>This is a simple way for children to take something off of your to-do list.<\/p>\n<p>Have them choose an outfit at night after their bath, just in case you have to make any minor \u201ctweaks\u201d to their wardrobe (ie, swapping out a pajama shirt for a short sleeve tee).<\/p>\n<p>Go over their selection together and be sure to pay them lots of compliments\u2026 and also explain the reason for any changes you made, if at all.<\/p>\n<p>The children will feel important, having been included in what feels like such a big part of their daily routine.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-36\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_8_Set_the_Dinner_Table_Daily\"\/>Chore #8: Set the Dinner Table (Daily)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>Kids at this age should be able to put plates, most utensils, cups and napkins on the table.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Especially if they are plastic.<\/p>\n<p>And I strongly suggest plastic table settings until the kids are at least 6 years old.<\/p>\n<p>There really isn\u2019t any reason to have ceramic or glass, etc\u2026<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s just asking for trouble.<\/p>\n<p>Plus, they make so many nice looking plastic place settings now that there really isn\u2019t any good reason to reserve them just for outdoor dining.<\/p>\n<p>Not to mention, your kids will feel special if they use the same plates as everybody else.<\/p>\n<p><strong><em>Want in on a mom secret? <\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Many of those \u201ckid\u201d dining sets aren\u2019t microwave or dishwasher safe.<\/p>\n<p>I learned that the hard way when Curious George\u00ae\u2019s face melted off our son\u2019s breakfast bowl after just one cycle.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Talk about mortifying!<\/p>\n<p><em>Mom flail.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>It happens. <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>I\u2019ve made peace with it. <\/em><\/p>\n<p>All kidding aside, why make your life harder by having to hand wash plates\u2026 or transfer from a microwave-safe dish to your child\u2019s Mickey Mouse\u00ae one?<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s just plain silly.<\/p>\n<p>And I can say this now because I have four children under age 8.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>And I just don\u2019t have time for that.<\/p>\n<p>A plate is a plate is a plate.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Okay?<\/p>\n<p><em>Moving on\u2026<\/em><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-1\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_9_Clear_your_Eating_Space_Daily\"\/>Chore #9:\u00a0 Clear your Eating Space (Daily)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>When you\u2019re all done eating\u2026 breakfast, lunch, dinner, whatever\u2026 have your child put his or her stuff in the sink or dishwasher.<\/p>\n<p>Let them throw their napkin in the trash.<\/p>\n<p>Let them wipe their placemat with a sponge or sanitizing wipe.<\/p>\n<p>Let them help!<\/p>\n<p>If you have more than one child this age, make them all responsible for their own.<\/p>\n<p>The same goes for setting the table.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-2\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_10_Dry_the_Dishes_Daily\"\/>Chore #10: Dry the Dishes (Daily)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>Hand your wee one a dish towel and have them start drying the pots, pans, ladles, and whisks that you don\u2019t bother putting into the dishwasher.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Or the plates.<\/p>\n<p><em>You know, the plastic ones that aren\u2019t dishwasher safe. <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Wink<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p>Listen, it\u2019s a simple enough chore\u2026 but also gives the two of you a little chance to talk, which in my mind, is a win\/win.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Checking in with your child at the end of a long day is a great way to reconnect and count your blessings.<\/p>\n<p>I still vividly remember drying dishes with my cousins after Sunday dinners at my grandma\u2019s house\u2026 wasn\u2019t much older than this when I started.<\/p>\n<p>I loved it.<\/p>\n<p>Your children will likely love it too.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_11_Help_with_Bathtime_Daily\"\/>Chore #11:\u00a0 Help with Bathtime (Daily)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>Young kids love baths.<\/p>\n<p>But you know what they love even more?<\/p>\n<p>Turning the water on<\/p>\n<p>Putting bubbles into the bath<\/p>\n<p>Dropping color changing tablets into the water to turn it pink or green<\/p>\n<p>Setting up their mermaid\/pirate adventure island<\/p>\n<p>Placing the bath markers on the ledge for when they\u2019re ready to write their names<\/p>\n<p>All of these cool things make for an awesome bath experience\u2026 so why should you deprive them of setting it up?\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>With your help, of course, have them get their bath ready.<\/p>\n<p>The shrills of excitement and smiles on their face every step of the way will put them in the best mood for bath time\u2026 which makes your job easier, especially if they\u2019ve had a long day.<\/p>\n<p>Lather them up a bit\u2026 then just sit back and let them play for a while before you wash the shampoo out under the waterfall (aka, faucet).\u00a0<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-4\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_12_Help_with_the_Grocery_List_and_Shopping_Weekly\"\/>Chore #12:\u00a0 Help with the Grocery List and Shopping (Weekly)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>Kids love their snacks at this age.<\/p>\n<p>My 4-year-old can eat all day long.<\/p>\n<p>Seriously, feed her scrambled eggs and bacon for breakfast\u2026 and she\u2019s ready for a snack 20 minutes later.\u00a0 Then lunch within an hour or so.<\/p>\n<p>This is typical of most small children.<\/p>\n<p>Eating is often not as much about necessity as it is boredom.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s a way to pass the time.<\/p>\n<p>So view this as an opportunity.<\/p>\n<p>An opportunity to make them accountable for helping with the weekly grocery shopping.<\/p>\n<p>Have them sit with you and create a shopping list. Then, take them to the store and have them help put items into the cart\u2026 even have them read off the list if they can.<\/p>\n<p>Children will feel as if they had a real hand in deciding <a href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/meal-planning-apps\/\">what your family eats this week<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>But more than that, you can use this as a chance to teach them the important lesson of a <u><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/healthy-lifestyle\/childrens-health\/in-depth\/nutrition-for-kids\/art-20049335\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" data-lasso-id=\"23900\">well-balanced diet<\/a><\/u>.<\/p>\n<p>They can\u2019t just put cheese crackers and ice cream on the list.<\/p>\n<p>Explain why they need different foods to stay healthy and avoid obesity.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-5\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Early_Elementary_Chore_List_Chores_for_Kids_Age_6-9\"\/>The Early Elementary Chore List: Chores for Kids Age 6-9<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"The Early Elementary Chore List: Chores for Kids Age 6-9\" width=\"445\" height=\"333\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/chores-for-kids-make-bed.jpg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/chores-for-kids-make-bed.jpg\" alt=\"The Early Elementary Chore List: Chores for Kids Age 6-9\" width=\"445\" height=\"333\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"> Your school-age child can certainly take two minutes to make their own bed. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>By the time most children reach first grade\u2026 they are bombarded with added responsibility in school.<\/p>\n<p>For many, it starts with going from half-day kindergarten to a full day of classroom stimulation. Multiple subjects\u2026 recess\u2026 lunch.<\/p>\n<p>Bus rides.<\/p>\n<p>Bye bye, naptime.<\/p>\n<p>Sweet dreams.<\/p>\n<p>Teachers expect our kids to focus for 6-7 hours a day\u2026 and that doesn\u2019t include the time before school and after.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>When we need them in the present\u2026<\/p>\n<p>Listening. Cooperating. Helping.<\/p>\n<p>But now there\u2019s the homework.<\/p>\n<p>The extracurriculars.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s a lot.<\/p>\n<p>Still, life can put a lot on our plate.\u00a0 They need to get used to it.<\/p>\n<p>You can\u2019t just sit back and say, \u201cthe poor kid had a long day\u2026 let him unwind at home.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Do that and you might as well be handing them a plate of caviar and glass of sparkling water.<\/p>\n<p><em>Seriously. <\/em><\/p>\n<p>I\u2019m not saying hand them a mop as soon as they walk in the door\u2026 what I <strong>am<\/strong> saying is they\u2019d benefit from a <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/43OQ6pl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">chore chart<\/a> and schedule at this age.<\/p>\n<p>You can purchase magnetic ones online, dry erase versions, or even use a printable.<\/p>\n<p>Whatever works for you.<\/p>\n<p>But what <strong>does not work <\/strong>is just letting your kids sit idle all afternoon. Especially on the weekends.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>As fun as video games are, they won\u2019t teach your child responsibility.<\/p>\n<p>Or the important lesson of earning a dollar.<\/p>\n<p>Incentives, such as allowance, are perfectly acceptable when it comes to assigning chores for kids.<\/p>\n<p>Rewards are another good option\u2026 such as 10-30 minutes of free time earned for every chore completed*.<\/p>\n<p>*Free time earned is dependent on the chore. More time working translates to more free time earned.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>This age is the perfect time to introduce an allowance.<\/p>\n<p><strong>That being said, here are some great chores for kids ages 6-9\u2026.<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-6\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_13_Make_your_Bed_Daily\"\/>Chore #13: Make your Bed (Daily)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>Making a bed is not difficult.<\/p>\n<p>Especially if it\u2019s a twin bed.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s simply just one more thing <strong>you<\/strong> don\u2019t need to be doing\u2026 so that you can do other things.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Mom things.<\/p>\n<p>Dad things.<\/p>\n<p>Your school age child can certainly take two minutes to make their own bed.<\/p>\n<p>In fact, they make covers now that essentially make the bed for them\u2026 with the pull of a zipper.<\/p>\n<p>Yes, a zipper.<\/p>\n<p>My kids are all about the <u><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B016BBZAFG\/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=dghchoresforkids-20&amp;linkId=1ca18b09bce2b735fe2d2575130d63e0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" data-tcb-href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B016BBZAFG\/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=dghchoresforkids-20&amp;linkId=1ca18b09bce2b735fe2d2575130d63e0\" data-lasso-id=\"23903\">Zippy Sack<\/a><\/u>. It\u2019s basically a sleeping bag that hugs your mattress.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B016BBZAFG\/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&amp;linkCode=li3&amp;tag=dghchoresforkids-20&amp;linkId=2051e64e0a8e3a17a6c5c9a474f90a2b\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" width=\"357\" height=\"262\" src=\"https:\/\/ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com\/widgets\/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=B016BBZAFG&amp;Format=_SL250_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=dghchoresforkids-20\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com\/widgets\/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=B016BBZAFG&amp;Format=_SL250_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=dghchoresforkids-20\" alt=\"\" width=\"357\" height=\"262\"\/><\/noscript><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B016BBZ5T2\/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&amp;linkCode=li3&amp;tag=dghchoresforkids-20&amp;linkId=7966c7d8c32d4b5b1d31ad88df81f7c2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" width=\"353\" height=\"262\" src=\"https:\/\/ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com\/widgets\/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=B016BBZ5T2&amp;Format=_SL250_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=dghchoresforkids-20\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com\/widgets\/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=B016BBZ5T2&amp;Format=_SL250_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=dghchoresforkids-20\" alt=\"\" width=\"353\" height=\"262\"\/><\/noscript><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>And as silly as it sounds, it works.\u00a0 Kids love zipping up their bed.<\/p>\n<p>Fun for them, helpful for you.<\/p>\n<p>Slam dunk!<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-7\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_14_Make_your_Breakfast_Daily\"\/>Chore #14: Make your Breakfast (Daily)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>Ok. Maybe your child is still a bit young to be whipping up homemade pancakes on the griddle\u2026.<\/p>\n<p>But, they are not too young to pour themselves a bowl of cereal\u2026 butter themselves a bagel\u2026 grab a yogurt\u2026 microwave some oatmeal.<\/p>\n<p>Don\u2019t disable the able.<\/p>\n<p>And don\u2019t encourage them to be lazy by doing these simple tasks for them.<\/p>\n<p>Sure, if you want to make them waffles or french toast on Sunday morning\u2026 go for it!\u00a0 During the week, however, let them get their breakfast while you get their lunches ready.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-8\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_15_Place_their_Lunch_Order_Daily\"\/>Chore #15: Place their Lunch Order (Daily)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>If your child is brown-bagging lunch during the week, make it a point to sit down together each night and go over what they want the next day.<\/p>\n<p>Take their order, if you will.<\/p>\n<p><em>I actually found cute little order pads\/guest checkbooks at the dollar store, which the kids get a kick out of filling out for me.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em><em>You can find them in larger quantities on\u00a0<u><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B016YGUEQI\/ref=as_li_ss_tl?psc=1&amp;pd_rd_i=B016YGUEQI&amp;pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&amp;pf_rd_p=4a97ab2f-e708-423b-b8f7-1f785b9d294d&amp;pf_rd_r=MT12Z288CXKM6XJ6RCN2&amp;pd_rd_wg=UhHYj&amp;pf_rd_s=desktop-dp-sims&amp;pf_rd_t=40701&amp;pd_rd_w=lOnmh&amp;pf_rd_i=desktop-dp-sims&amp;pd_rd_r=39efa62e-b5cd-11e8-b9b0-b9c4745829eb&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=dghchoresforkids-20&amp;linkId=1a7f7415461d91e33aed96333738d917\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" data-tcb-href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B016YGUEQI\/ref=as_li_ss_tl?psc=1&amp;pd_rd_i=B016YGUEQI&amp;pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&amp;pf_rd_p=4a97ab2f-e708-423b-b8f7-1f785b9d294d&amp;pf_rd_r=MT12Z288CXKM6XJ6RCN2&amp;pd_rd_wg=UhHYj&amp;pf_rd_s=desktop-dp-sims&amp;pf_rd_t=40701&amp;pd_rd_w=lOnmh&amp;pf_rd_i=desktop-dp-sims&amp;pd_rd_r=39efa62e-b5cd-11e8-b9b0-b9c4745829eb&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=dghchoresforkids-20&amp;linkId=1a7f7415461d91e33aed96333738d917\" data-lasso-id=\"23906\">amazon<\/a><\/u>, of course.<\/em>\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B016YGUEQI\/ref=as_li_ss_il?psc=1&amp;pd_rd_i=B016YGUEQI&amp;pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&amp;pf_rd_p=4a97ab2f-e708-423b-b8f7-1f785b9d294d&amp;pf_rd_r=MT12Z288CXKM6XJ6RCN2&amp;pd_rd_wg=UhHYj&amp;pf_rd_s=desktop-dp-sims&amp;pf_rd_t=40701&amp;pd_rd_w=lOnmh&amp;pf_rd_i=desktop-dp-sims&amp;pd_rd_r=39efa62e-b5cd-11e8-b9b0-b9c4745829eb&amp;linkCode=li3&amp;tag=dghchoresforkids-20&amp;linkId=277d989395f165ea9cd2c8cd3d6a0627\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" width=\"303\" height=\"303\" src=\"https:\/\/ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com\/widgets\/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=B016YGUEQI&amp;Format=_SL250_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=dghchoresforkids-20\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com\/widgets\/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=B016YGUEQI&amp;Format=_SL250_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=dghchoresforkids-20\" alt=\"\" width=\"303\" height=\"303\"\/><\/noscript><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Ideally, their lunch order is something you can already prep in the evening so that all you have to do is put it in the lunchbox and send them on their merry way in the morning.<\/p>\n<p>This may not always be the case, though, as lunches have gotten so fancy these days\u2026<\/p>\n<p>A hot thermos filled with pesto noodles.<\/p>\n<p>Hummus with pita chips and olives.<\/p>\n<p>Still\u2026<\/p>\n<p>There are things you can do ahead of time.<\/p>\n<p>Like putting the pretzels in their lunch bag\u2026 or pre-cutting the cheddar cheese they want with their crackers.<\/p>\n<p>And taking the guesswork out of what they actually want saves valuable time in the morning.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-9\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_16_Bring_their_Dirty_Laundry_to_the_Washing_Machine_As_Needed\"\/>Chore #16: Bring their Dirty Laundry to the Washing Machine (As Needed)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>Every child this age should have their own laundry basket, hamper, bag, etc\u2026 in their room.<\/p>\n<p>And when that basket becomes full, they should be responsible for bringing the said basket to the laundry room.<\/p>\n<p>Of course, if there is something they need to be washed sooner, they can certainly bring it to the washing machine so you know it needs to be done.<\/p>\n<p><em>This happens all of the time with my kids\u2019 soccer jerseys. <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>And I\u2019m here to tell you there is nothing like pulling a smelly jersey out of the hamper on game day.\u00a0 Mmmmm. <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Ripe. <\/em><\/p>\n<p>Personally, I try and dedicate one day per week to each family member\u2019s laundry.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Four kids mean four laundry days for them. One for husband. One for me. One for sheets, towels, etc.<\/p>\n<p>Ah, the seven days of laundry.<\/p>\n<p>It doesn\u2019t always go according to plan, but when it does\u2026 it makes the whole laundry experience seem a bit less daunting.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-10\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_17_Put_their_Clean_Laundry_Away_As_Needed\"\/>Chore #17: Put their Clean Laundry Away (As Needed)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>I don\u2019t know about you, but for me, the worst part about doing laundry is putting the clothes away. Especially if you have multiple family members in one load.<\/p>\n<p>That is why I prefer to assign each person a laundry day (as I mentioned above).<\/p>\n<p>If it\u2019s your 7-year-old\u2019s turn on Tuesday, fold the clothes and place the basket in her room for her to put away.<\/p>\n<p>If your 9-year-old is up on Thursday, give him his basket that evening.<\/p>\n<p>Having only one room to worry about saves time.<\/p>\n<p>Having your child handle it for you\u2026 well, that saves yourself time for that glass of wine you deserve after a long day!<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Happy family folding laundry image\" width=\"474\" height=\"354\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/chores-for-kids-laundry.jpg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/chores-for-kids-laundry.jpg\" alt=\"Happy family folding laundry image\" width=\"474\" height=\"354\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"> Having your child handle putting away their clean laundry saves your time and teaches them responsibility. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-11\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_18_Feed_the_Family_Pet_Daily\"\/>Chore #18: Feed the Family Pet (Daily)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>We\u2019ve all been there.<\/p>\n<p>You child staring up at you with puppy dog eyes\u2026 literally asking for a puppy.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s hard to resist.<\/p>\n<p>And most of us don\u2019t.<\/p>\n<p>If it isn\u2019t a puppy, it\u2019s a kitten.<\/p>\n<p>Or a goldfish.<\/p>\n<p>Or a hamster.<\/p>\n<p>A parakeet.<\/p>\n<p>A lizard.<\/p>\n<p>A bunny.<\/p>\n<p><em>Yes, our daughter wants a bunny. <\/em><\/p>\n<p>Regardless of what pet you welcome into your home, kids need to understand that it\u2019s an added responsibility.<\/p>\n<p>And one that shouldn\u2019t fall on you alone.<\/p>\n<p>In fact, and you hear this all the time, taking care of a pet can be as much work as raising a small child.<\/p>\n<p>The potty training.<\/p>\n<p>The sleep training.<\/p>\n<p>Feed them.<\/p>\n<p>Finding a sitter for them.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s work.<\/p>\n<p>So, my advice to you is this\u2026 make your child accountable for, at the very least, feeding the family pet.<\/p>\n<p>Putting food in a dog or cat bowl is not difficult.<\/p>\n<p>Sprinkling food into the fishbowl\u2026 not difficult.<\/p>\n<p>Giving the lizard some lettuce leaves\u2026 easy enough.<\/p>\n<p>They wanted the pet\u2026 they have to help take care of it.<\/p>\n<p>That should be non-negotiable.<\/p>\n<p> Your best bet, of course, is to keep your kids first pet something simple, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fishkeepingworld.com\/category\/freshwater-fish\/\">like keeping fish<\/a>, that can keep the kids happy, teach them responsibility, but make minimal impact on YOUR workload.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-12\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_19_Empty_All_of_the_Wastebaskets_Weekly_or_As_Needed\"\/>Chore #19: Empty All of the Wastebaskets (Weekly, or As Needed)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>Most families have a main trash can in the kitchen\u2026 and a slew of smaller wastebaskets in the various bathrooms, bedrooms, office, etc.<\/p>\n<p>These don\u2019t typically need to be taken out daily, as they are mostly filled with tissues or paper\u2026 still, they do need to be emptied.<\/p>\n<p>My family averages every 3 days or so, but our little guy is still in diapers and one is in pull-ups at night.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><em>Lingering wet diaper smell\u2026 no thank you! <\/em><\/p>\n<p>If you line the baskets with plastic bags from the grocery store, it makes emptying them a cinch for your kids.<\/p>\n<p>Then simply have them add the contents to the larger bag that\u2019s ready to be taken outside.<\/p>\n<p>One and done!<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-13\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Double_Digits_Chore_List_Chores_for_Kids_Ages_10-15\"\/>The Double Digits Chore List: Chores for Kids Ages 10-15<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Tasking a child with taking responsibility for another living thing is huge! It teaches them empathy, compassion, love, and patience.\" width=\"508\" height=\"380\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/chores-for-kids-family-pet.jpg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/chores-for-kids-family-pet.jpg\" alt=\"Tasking a child with taking responsibility for another living thing is huge! It teaches them empathy, compassion, love, and patience.\" width=\"508\" height=\"380\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"> Tasking a child with taking responsibility for another living thing is huge! It teaches them empathy, compassion, love, and patience. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>So this age group is a bit tricky\u2026 for a number of reasons.<\/p>\n<p>Kids tend to develop major attitudes at this age.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>They feel grown.<\/p>\n<p>Invincible.<\/p>\n<p>Entitled.<\/p>\n<p>They likely have no concept of what things cost.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>They often try and emulate the \u201cpopular\u201d kids\u2026 or maybe they <strong>are<\/strong> the popular kids, sporting the latest fashion trends.<\/p>\n<p>Their bodies are changing.<\/p>\n<p>Their likes and dislikes fluctuate almost daily.<\/p>\n<p><em>What? Wait! Harry Potter isn\u2019t cool when you\u2019re 11 anymore??<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Don\u2019t tell my 8-year-old.\u00a0 He\u2019d be crushed. <\/em><\/p>\n<p>To be frank, while there is a decent age gap between 10 and 15-years-olds\u2026 they share one very important thing.<\/p>\n<p>They are struggling to find themselves and to fit in.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-icon-list ugb-icon-list ugb-icon--icon-arrow ugb-b7f4b2b ugb-icon-list--v2 ugb-main-block\">\n<div class=\"ugb-inner-block\">\n<div class=\"ugb-block-content\">\n<ul>\n<li>Intermediate school. <\/li>\n<li>Middle School. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><strong>It\u2019s all just a melting pot of confused kids trying to find their voice<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-icon-list ugb-icon-list ugb-icon--icon-arrow ugb-fe22cf7 ugb-icon-list--v2 ugb-main-block\">\n<div class=\"ugb-inner-block\">\n<div class=\"ugb-block-content\">\n<ul>\n<li>Making new friends<\/li>\n<li>Trying not to be teased <\/li>\n<li>Building their self-confidence<\/li>\n<li>Coming to grips with new feelings<\/li>\n<li>Trying to be more adult<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>That is why chores for kids at this age should be geared towards instilling in them a feeling of self-worth.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Self-esteem is critical at this age.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>If you build them up at home, make them feel important\u2026 they will likely carry that with them for the rewst of their lives.<\/p>\n<p>Dealing with <u><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stopbullying.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" data-lasso-id=\"23908\">bullies<\/a><\/u>\u2026 figuring out who their real friends are\u2026 finding their place in the world\u2026 it will all be much easier if they respect themselves.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Give them a purpose at home and they will find purpose in the everyday.<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-14\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_20_Take_Responsibility_for_the_Family_Pet_Daily\"\/>Chore #20: Take Responsibility for the Family Pet (Daily)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>Yes, the pet thing makes a second appearance in this blog.<\/p>\n<p>Why?<\/p>\n<p>Because tasking a child with taking responsibility for another living thing is <strong>huge<\/strong>!<\/p>\n<p>It teaches them empathy.<\/p>\n<p>Compassion.<\/p>\n<p>Love.<\/p>\n<p>Patience.<\/p>\n<p>A child aged 10-15 is not only capable of feeding the family pet\u2026 but taking the dog for a walk.<\/p>\n<p>Emptying a litter box.<\/p>\n<p>Cleaning the fish tank.<\/p>\n<p>There is no reason for you to do these things, at all, unless your child isn\u2019t home.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-15\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_21_Load_and_Unload_the_Dishwasher_Daily\"\/>Chore 21: Load and Unload the Dishwasher (Daily)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>There is no reason why a child in this age group can\u2019t safely handle full-on dishwasher duty.<\/p>\n<p>I\u2019m not suggesting you hand them the sharp knives to juggle\u2026 but they can certainly manage the rinsing off and loading of plates, glasses, mugs, forks, spoons, butter knives.<\/p>\n<p>Then they can empty the dishwasher.<\/p>\n<p>And put the items away.<\/p>\n<p><em>It will be ok. <\/em><\/p>\n<p>Plus, they probably know where the band-aids are.<\/p>\n<p><em>Yes, I went there<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p>You need to let these children help.<\/p>\n<p>I mean, you don\u2019t cover them in bubble wrap before sending them off on their bikes.<\/p>\n<p><em>Do you? <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>That would just be weird. <\/em><\/p>\n<p>A cut may happen here and there, a glass may break.<\/p>\n<p>It happens.<\/p>\n<p>It will be ok.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Check out this ultimate age appropriate chore list for kids.\" width=\"459\" height=\"344\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/chores-for-kids-dry-dishes.jpg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/chores-for-kids-dry-dishes.jpg\" alt=\"Check out this ultimate age appropriate chore list for kids.\" width=\"459\" height=\"344\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"> If you want to teach kids responsibility and give them a great chore, \u00a0show them how to load a dishwasher. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-16\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_22_Pack_their_School_Lunches_Daily\"\/>Chore #22: Pack their School Lunches (Daily)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>Finally!<\/p>\n<p>You are off the hook for school lunch.<\/p>\n<p>You may actually get to straighten your hair in the morning once in a while!<\/p>\n<p>At this age, a child knows what he or she likes\u2026 and what they don\u2019t like.<\/p>\n<p>That is not to say they should have free reign\u2026 you can still provide a list of \u201ccriteria\u201d, if you will, for packing their lunches.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Like it must include one fruit or veggie.<\/p>\n<p>Or that they have to have some protein in addition to carbs.<\/p>\n<p>Limit it to one sweet treat.<\/p>\n<p>Each school night, have your child write down what they are going to have for lunch the next day\u2026 and leave it for you to approve.<\/p>\n<p>Once you make the necessary changes, if any, they are good to go.<\/p>\n<p>All they have to do the next morning is pack it up.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Time-saving tip:<\/strong> have them pack up or prep whatever they can the night before.\u00a0 It may just mean an extra 10 mins of sleep\u2026 and who doesn\u2019t like the sound of that?<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-17\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_23_Create_a_Family_Shower_Schedule_Daily\"\/>Chore #23: Create a Family Shower Schedule (Daily)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>By this age, baths are a thing of the past.<\/p>\n<p>And the kids\u2019 schedules are often all over the place.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Gym on Monday.<\/p>\n<p>Soccer on Wed and Saturday.<\/p>\n<p>Swimming on Friday.<\/p>\n<p>Sometimes it may make sense for them to shower at night\u2026<\/p>\n<p>Other days, the morning works best.<\/p>\n<p>Let them create a shower schedule (especially if sharing bathrooms is an issue), so that everybody knows what time to set their alarm clocks.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-18\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_24_Help_with_Dinner_Daily\"\/>Chore #24: Help with Dinner (Daily)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>Having your kids help with dinner is different than having them cook dinner.<\/p>\n<p>Helping means that they can microwave leftovers.<\/p>\n<p>Helping means they can preheat the oven.<\/p>\n<p>Helping means they can bring out the condiments.<\/p>\n<p>Helping means they can dress the salad.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Helping means they can plate the meal.<\/p>\n<p>Helping means they can pour the beverages.<\/p>\n<p>Have them do all of the little things so that you can direct your focus towards getting food onto the table in a timely fashion.<\/p>\n<p>Because the less time you have to spend in the kitchen means more time to sit down and chat with each other.<\/p>\n<p>And that is priceless.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-19\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_25_Get_their_Gear_Ready_Daily\"\/>Chore #25: Get their Gear Ready (Daily)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>The mornings have a tendency to get away from us.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Or at least, from me.<\/p>\n<p><em>I\u2019m not ashamed to admit it. <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>I\u2019m a hot mess in the morning. <\/em>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>No matter how early I get up, or how prepared I think I am\u2026 my kids have a gift for making me feel like I\u2019m playing a game of \u201cBeat the Clock\u201d.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s sad, really.<\/p>\n<p>But it happens.<\/p>\n<p>So how do we fix it?<\/p>\n<p>Planning the night before.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cFor what?\u201d, you ask.<\/p>\n<p>Well\u2026 for starters:<\/p>\n<p><strong>1. Check the weather for the next morning.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>If it\u2019s calling for rain, have your kids hang their raincoats by the door in the evening.<\/p>\n<p>If a cold front is moving in, make them swap out the jean jacket for a lined one.<\/p>\n<p><strong>2. Check the kids\u2019 schedules for the next day.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>If they have lacrosse right after school, have them place their gear in a duffle bag by the door.<\/p>\n<p>If they are going to a friend\u2019s house for playdate, have them place a change of clothes and a snack in their backpack.<\/p>\n<p>Whether your child takes the bus, walks, carpools, or you drive them\u2026 being prepared the night before will help ensure smooth sailing out the door.<\/p>\n<p>Maybe.<\/p>\n<p><em>One can hope. <\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong>Oh, and another little tip: <\/strong>if you\u2019re on drop-off duty in the AM\u2026 you can load up the car the night before to save time and lower your chances of forgetting something amidst the morning madness.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-20\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_26_Take_out_the_Recycling_Weekly\"\/>Chore #26: Take out the Recycling (Weekly)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>Be mindful of your carbon footprint.<\/p>\n<p>Respect the planet.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s a valuable lesson to impart on our children <strong>now<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>If you haven\u2019t done so already, that is.<\/p>\n<p>Recycling is one of the easiest things you can do to help keep Earth healthy.<\/p>\n<p>And it\u2019s a perfect chore for kids age 10-15.<\/p>\n<p>Discuss with them the importance of recycling.<\/p>\n<p>Explain to them <u><a href=\"https:\/\/climatekids.nasa.gov\/recycle-this\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" data-lasso-id=\"23909\">what goes where<\/a>.<\/u><\/p>\n<p>Then put your child in charge of the family\u2019s recycling obligation.<\/p>\n<p>Have he or she make sure everything is in its proper bin each day\u2026 and then let them take the recycling out for your town\u2019s pick up each week.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>They will feel important\u2026 as if they are making a real difference.<\/p>\n<p>And they are.<\/p>\n<p>You all are.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-21\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_High_School_Chore_List_Chores_for_Kids_Ages_16-18\"\/>The High School Chore List: Chores for Kids Ages 16-18<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Check out this ultimate list of age appropriate chores for kids to earn money.\" width=\"509\" height=\"381\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/chores-for-kids-babysit.jpg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/chores-for-kids-babysit.jpg\" alt=\"Check out this ultimate list of age appropriate chores for kids to earn money.\" width=\"509\" height=\"381\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"> Signing up your teen to babysit will not only will this save you time and money but it creates an excellent opportunity for siblings to bond. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>If your kids are in high school, odds are they are driving\u2026 or very close to it.<\/p>\n<p>Perhaps they have a part-time job.<\/p>\n<p>They have curfews.<\/p>\n<p>And it most certainly feels as if they are eating you out of house and home.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><em>Where on earth do they put all of that food?<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Despite all of this, they are not grown-ups\u2026 not just yet.<\/p>\n<p>They are still your children.<\/p>\n<p>And until they decide to leave the nest, they need to step up their chore game at home.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s a lesson their future roommates and potential spouses will thank you for.<\/p>\n<p>Trust me on this.<\/p>\n<p>Selecting the right chores for kids in high school is vital to helping them prepare for the not so distant future.<\/p>\n<p>Whether it be college\u2026<\/p>\n<p>The workforce\u2026<\/p>\n<p>Pursuing their dream of becoming an actor\u2026<\/p>\n<p>Getting married.<\/p>\n<p>Having kids.<\/p>\n<p><em>I know, slow down\u2026 slow down! <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Marriage? <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Kids??<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>They are only in high school.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Well, I\u2019ve got news for you\u2026 it goes fast.<\/p>\n<p>You blink\u2026 and your kids are in 1st grade.<\/p>\n<p>Blink again\u2026 they\u2019re graduating high school.<\/p>\n<p><em>Dare I go on? <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>I didn\u2019t think so. <\/em><\/p>\n<p>Ok, let\u2019s get down to business then, shall we?<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-22\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_27_Sign_them_up_for_Babysitting_Duty_Daily\"\/>Chore #27: Sign them up for Babysitting Duty (Daily)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>If you have younger children, put your high schooler in charge of seeing them home safely from school.<\/p>\n<p>Whether they drive, walk or meet them at the bus stop\u2026 let big brother (or sister) handle it.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>It shouldn\u2019t be too difficult, given most public school districts stagger school dismissal times so that the older students start and finish earlier.<\/p>\n<p><em>Convenient, isn\u2019t it? <\/em><\/p>\n<p>Not only will this save you time, and possibly money (picking kids up from school and watching them for a couple of hours is <u><a href=\"https:\/\/www.care.com\/after-school-transportation\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" data-lasso-id=\"23910\">big business<\/a><\/u> these days)\u2026 but it creates an excellent opportunity for siblings to bond.<\/p>\n<p><em>I know what you\u2019re thinking\u2026 again\u2026<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>I\u2019m a mind reader. <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Didn\u2019t I tell you? <\/em><\/p>\n<p>What if your high schooler is involved in after school activities?<\/p>\n<p>What if they have to work?<\/p>\n<p>Then this may not be a chore for them\u2026 every day.<\/p>\n<p>But helping out with the little ones should certainly be on the list for when they do have free time to do so.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Evenings.<\/p>\n<p>Weekends.<\/p>\n<p>Parents aren\u2019t the only ones who can drive their kids to ballet class.<\/p>\n<p>Or baseball practice.<\/p>\n<p>Clock them in and enjoy a little downtime!<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-23\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_28_Get_Dinner_Started_Daily\"\/>Chore #28: Get Dinner Started (Daily)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>If you work outside the home, you may not get home before 5pm.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re lucky.<\/p>\n<p>If you work from home, or are a stay-at-home mom (or dad), the unpredictability of your day can often make getting dinner on the table a bit tricky some days.<\/p>\n<p>An unscheduled conference call here\u2026 a kid scraping their knee there\u2026.<\/p>\n<p>Life happens.<\/p>\n<p>Sure, there are services available like <u><a href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/blue-apron-review\/\" data-lasso-id=\"23911\">Blue Apron<\/a><\/u> or <u><a href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/5-meal-plan-review\/\" data-lasso-id=\"23912\">$5 Dollar Meal Plan<\/a><\/u> that can help with this\u2026 but they still require that <strong>you<\/strong> do the cooking.<\/p>\n<p>However, if you have a child in high school\u2026 well, it\u2019s almost like having a sous chef in residence.<\/p>\n<p>I\u2019m not suggesting they cook every meal from scratch\u2026 every day.<\/p>\n<p><em>Unless they wanted to. <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Who knows? <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>They may find their calling!<\/em><\/p>\n<p>But what I am strongly suggesting is that they take responsibility for getting dinner started, either by:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Putting an already prepared or <u><a href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/best-meal-prep-containers\/\" data-lasso-id=\"23913\">leftover meal<\/a><\/u> into the oven or microwave<\/li>\n<li>Following a quick and easy recipe, using ingredients you\u2019ve already set aside for them<\/li>\n<li>Boiling water<\/li>\n<li>Ordering the pizza<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><em>Yes, sometimes it\u2019s perfectly acceptable to order a pizza. <\/em><\/p>\n<p>Anything that gets the family <u><a href=\"https:\/\/www.washingtonpost.com\/posteverything\/wp\/2015\/01\/12\/the-most-important-thing-you-can-do-with-your-kids-eat-dinner-with-them\/?noredirect=on&amp;utm_term=.2c083ee8168d\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" data-lasso-id=\"23914\">eating together<\/a><\/u> is okay in my book.<\/p>\n<p>It should be in yours as well.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-24\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_29_Do_the_Laundry_Daily_As_Needed\"\/>Chore #29: Do the Laundry (Daily, As Needed)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>No more baby steps\u2026 your little bird must fly!<\/p>\n<p>It is no longer acceptable for a high schooler to just dump their dirty clothes off at the laundry room.<\/p>\n<p>At this point, they should and need to be able to actually do their own laundry.<\/p>\n<p>If you haven\u2019t already, show them where the detergent and fabric softener goes.<\/p>\n<p>Show them which cycles to run.<\/p>\n<p>Then move onto the dryer settings.<\/p>\n<p>Let them wash their clothes.<\/p>\n<p>Then dry and fold them.<\/p>\n<p>Put them away.<\/p>\n<p>Nobody is going to do it for them after they leave home\u2026 at least not right away\u2026 so why not get them used to the idea now?<\/p>\n<p>It will not only save you a time\u2026 but will shield them from the potential embarrassment of having to wear all pink shirts to class for a week after the accidently mix darks and lights in one load.<\/p>\n<p><em>Been there, done that. <\/em><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-25\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_30_Get_them_Involved_in_Meal_Prepping_Weekly\"\/>Chore #30: \u00a0Get them Involved in Meal Prepping (Weekly)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>As parents, most of our days start and end in a blur.<\/p>\n<p>So many schedules to keep track of\u2026<\/p>\n<p>So many errands to run\u2026<\/p>\n<p>So many hours of homework to supervise\u2026<\/p>\n<p>So many things to do\u2026<\/p>\n<p>And only so many hours in a day.<\/p>\n<p>As I\u2019ve mentioned a few times now\u2026<\/p>\n<p><em>Color me a broken record, but\u2026<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Mealtime is critical for checking in and keeping tabs on one another.<\/p>\n<p>Eating together as a family, at least once per day, keeps you up to speed.<\/p>\n<p>It brings you closer together, no matter how far apart the day takes you.<\/p>\n<p>And if you take advantage of <u><a href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/how-to-make-a-meal-plan\/\" data-lasso-id=\"23915\">creating a meal plan<\/a><\/u> for the week\u2026 you\u2019ll never be caught asking yourself, \u201cwhat\u2019s for dinner tonight?\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Better even\u2026 when done properly, meal planning allows you to have meals already prepped and ready to go on any given day.<\/p>\n<p>Which makes this, my friend,\u00a0 one of the perfect chores for kids ages 16-18.<\/p>\n<p>Together with your child, sit down and come up with one day a week that you can dedicate to meal planning.<\/p>\n<p>Go through recipes together and make your grocery list.<\/p>\n<p>There are even <u><a data-lasso-id=\"23916\" href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/meal-planning-apps\/\">meal-planning apps<\/a><\/u> and websites to help with this\u2026 perfect for your tech-savvy teens.<\/p>\n<p>The only thing left to do now is deciding who does the grocery shopping for the week (maybe it\u2019s both of you!)\u2026 and which day you\u2019re going to actually do the meal prepping.<\/p>\n<p>The beautiful thing about meal prepping is that it\u2019s meant to fit into your schedule. If, for example, you pick Sunday as your prep day\u2026 you can prepare yourselves seven delicious meals to either refrigerate or freeze, for whichever night of the week you choose.<\/p>\n<p>Then all your teen has to do is take them out when you\u2019re ready to cook them.<\/p>\n<p>Meal prepping saves time without compromising on meal quality.<\/p>\n<p>Plus, if you play your cards right, it creates a wonderful opportunity for you to bond with your teenager.<\/p>\n<p><em>You\u2019ll miss those days soon enough. <\/em><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tab-con-26\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chore_31_Yard_Work_Clean_the_Car_Weekly\"\/>Chore #31: Yard Work, Clean the Car (Weekly)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p>At this age, many children are learning (or already know) how to drive.<\/p>\n<p>Heck, they\u2019ve probably even borrowed your car a few <em>hundred <\/em>times.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><em>Insert sarcasm here. <\/em><\/p>\n<p>That being said, your children need to pitch in and keep the family vehicle presentable. After all, I doubt it was you who dumped potato chips in the back seat.<\/p>\n<p>Or got mud from your cleats on the passenger side mat.<\/p>\n<p>Task them with cleaning the car once a week (more if it\u2019s really bad).\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Washing it would be going above and beyond, but at least they can spiffy up the interior\u2026 whether they do it themselves or use allowance money to take it to the carwash.<\/p>\n<p><em>And\u2026 <\/em><\/p>\n<p>Since they are old enough to drive a car, I\u2019m fairly confident they can handle pushing or riding a lawnmower. It\u2019s not exactly considered heavy machinery or anything.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>So let them cut the grass.<\/p>\n<p>Rake the leaves.<\/p>\n<p>Weed the garden.<\/p>\n<p>Manual labor builds character\u2026 and muscles.<\/p>\n<p><em>Your son\u2019s girlfriend won\u2019t complain.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>\u200b<\/em><em>What? <\/em><em>Too far?\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Bad visual. <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>He\u2019s your baby. <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>I know. <\/em><\/p>\n<p>All teasing aside, this is a no-brainer chore for kids in high school.<\/p>\n<p>Male or female.<\/p>\n<p><em>We don\u2019t discriminate here.<\/em><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"some-final-thoughts-on-chores-for-kids\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Final_Thoughts_on_Chores_for_Kids\"\/>Final Thoughts on Chores for Kids \u00a0<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h2>\n<p><strong>You are a parent.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>You\u2019ve raised your kids the best you know-how\u2026 you are there for them, with them, every day.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-icon-list ugb-icon-list ugb-icon--icon-arrow ugb-7da5c94 ugb-icon-list--v2 ugb-main-block\">\n<div class=\"ugb-inner-block\">\n<div class=\"ugb-block-content\">\n<ul>\n<li> Nurturing them.<\/li>\n<li>Helping them.<\/li>\n<li>Scolding them.\u00a0<\/li>\n<li>Watching out for them.<\/li>\n<li>Loving them.\u00a0 <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>I can give you all the advice and suggestions that I want\u2026 <strong>but nobody knows your child as well as you<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>If they have special needs, interests, strengths, weaknesses, etc\u2026 work the appropriate chores for them into your family\u2019s routine.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>For instance, if you feel your 5-year-old is more apt to do some of the chores I listed for 2 and 3- year-olds, work those in to their day.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Conversely, if your 6-year-old can handle some of the chores I suggested for a 10-year-old\u2026 let them have at it!<\/p>\n<p>By no means is this list age restrictive\u2026 it is merely a guideline to get you started.<\/p>\n<p>Also, some of the chores I outlined work better daily \u2026 while others are \u201c<em>as needed<\/em>\u201d or weekly.<\/p>\n<p>Again, that is entirely <strong>up to you<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>Your family\u2019s schedule is different than mine.<\/p>\n<p>Your situation is different than mine.<\/p>\n<p>Like a snowflake, no two families are the same.<\/p>\n<p>But know this\u2026 and it\u2019s important\u2026<\/p>\n<p><strong>Chore assignments must be realistic in order for them to get done. <\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Assigning age-appropriate chores for kids is <strong>the best way<\/strong> to ensure that\u2026 and ultimately the best way to prepare them for adulthood.<\/p>\n<p>And while they may not realize it now\u2026 your kids will thank you for it later.<\/p>\n<p>I promise.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Finally, if you want to level up your parenting skills, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/short-positive-parenting-review\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">then check out this resource that will show you how to get your kids to listen WITHOUT yelling, nagging, or losing control<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide\" style=\"grid-template-columns:23% auto\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9453 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/nicoel-profile-pic.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/nicoel-profile-pic-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/nicoel-profile-pic-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/nicoel-profile-pic-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/nicoel-profile-pic-65x65.jpg 65w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/nicoel-profile-pic-220x220.jpg 220w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/nicoel-profile-pic-100x100.jpg 100w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/nicoel-profile-pic-400x400.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/nicoel-profile-pic-450x450.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/nicoel-profile-pic-510x510.jpg 510w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/nicoel-profile-pic-1024x1024.jpg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/nicoel-profile-pic-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9453 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/nicoel-profile-pic.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/nicoel-profile-pic-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/nicoel-profile-pic-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/nicoel-profile-pic-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/nicoel-profile-pic-65x65.jpg 65w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/nicoel-profile-pic-220x220.jpg 220w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/nicoel-profile-pic-100x100.jpg 100w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/nicoel-profile-pic-400x400.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/nicoel-profile-pic-450x450.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/nicoel-profile-pic-510x510.jpg 510w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\"\/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p class=\"has-normal-font-size\"><strong>Nicole Krause<\/strong> has been writing both personally and professionally for over 20 years. She holds a dual B.A. in English and Film Studies. Her work has appeared in some of the country\u2019s top publications, major news outlets, online publications, and blogs. As a happily married (and extremely busy) mother of four\u2026 her articles primarily focus on parenting, marriage, family, finance, organization, and product reviews.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/chores-for-kids-earn-money.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"chores for kids | chores for 9 12 year olds | chores for 10 12 year olds\" class=\"wp-image-35449\" width=\"512\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/chores-for-kids-earn-money-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/chores-for-kids-earn-money-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/chores-for-kids-earn-money.jpg 735w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/chores-for-kids-earn-money-683x1024.jpg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/chores-for-kids-earn-money-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"chores for kids | chores for 9 12 year olds | chores for 10 12 year olds\" class=\"wp-image-35449\" width=\"512\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/chores-for-kids-earn-money-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/chores-for-kids-earn-money-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/chores-for-kids-earn-money.jpg 735w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\"\/><\/noscript><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/hop.clickbank.net\/?affiliate=infohatch&amp;vendor=J1R2C\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-10614 aligncenter\" src=\"http:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/profit-gen400px.png\" alt=\"Profit Gen\" width=\"400\" height=\"217\" srcset=\"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/profit-gen400px.png 400w, https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/profit-gen400px-300x163.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><br \/><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>There might be affiliate links on this page, which means we get a small commission of anything you buy. As an Amazon Associate we earn [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":2875,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[19],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2874","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-habits"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2874","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2874"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2874\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2875"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2874"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2874"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2874"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}