Age Guidance for Childhood Responsibilities
I often regret that no matter how many times I unload the dishwasher, it will inevitably have to be unloaded again – perhaps today or tomorrow. Housework is a tedious but inevitable part of life, and teaching our children to take responsibility for all the little tasks that permeate everyday life is a process that begins in their youngest years. But it can be difficult to know where to start and what exactly we should expect from them.
I’ve created an age guide for work our kids can (or should) do, but before you dive into it, let me suggest a few disclaimers:
1) Each age category should be based on the previous one.
For example, to avoid unnecessary redundancy, suppose that if the child makes the bed himself, then in subsequent age groups he will do it.
2) These are generalizations
Every child is different. Some children will be chopping vegetables by the age of seven; others cannot be trusted with a sharp knife until they are old enough to drive a car. This guide is an attempt to develop skills from one age group to another, but it is also normal – and encouraged – to play to your child’s strengths and preferences when it comes to housework.
3) There is a lot here
I certainly don’t recommend kids do everything on this list (as great as it is). Think of it as a fun household chores bag that they can choose from as they grow up.