Have you ever come across those overly ambitious chore charts for kids circulating on social media? They often suggest that toddlers should be sorting laundry or that a ten-year-old can whip up dinner and tackle a deep clean of the kitchen. As a pediatrician, I can’t help but think, “Really?” At 40, I sometimes struggle with my own to-do list, let alone expecting kids to handle these lofty tasks. Thus, I’ve crafted a more practical guide for typical families—those of us with a realistic view of what children can manage and what parents are willing to tackle. Let’s face it; when kids do chores, it often means parents end up redoing most of it.
Infants
Let’s be honest—infants don’t do chores. They are busy mastering the art of being adorable, and that’s their full-time job.
Toddlers
- Toss a few dirty clothes and toys near the hamper.
- Avoid turning meal times into food fights.
- Keep bathwater contained within the tub.
- Dispose of trash properly, not in mom’s hand or hidden around the house.
- Fetch and open a juice box without creating a mess.
- Immediately inform Mom of any juice spills.
- Place all toys in the toy box (the floor is not a substitute).
- Gently place used dishes in the sink, without throwing them.
Elementary Kids
- Aim dirty laundry towards the hamper (maybe channel Dad’s aiming skills).
- Hang up jackets and backpacks right when they come home.
- Put the lunch box in the sink as soon as they walk in the door.
- Please, for the love of all that is good, put away the Legos before someone steps on them.
Middle Schoolers
- Keep personal bathroom items contained in one drawer.
- Charge their own devices without whining.
- Empty the dishwasher without complaints.
- Throw their clothes in the hamper, and while you’re at it, pick up any socks lying around.
High Schoolers
- Surprise your parents by vacuuming or dusting occasionally.
- Cook a meal every now and then.
- Learn how to use the washing machine.
- Get a job to fund their own expenses, like gas and cell phone bills.
- Mow the lawn and take out the trash; it looks good on a resume.
College Students
If you’re living away from home, we won’t sweat the chores—unless we visit. In that case, please tidy up your dorm room. And please don’t drop out or get into trouble.
Young Adults Moving Back Home
- Pick up groceries for Mom.
- Handle your own laundry.
- Prepare your own meals.
- Clean up after yourself—seriously, it’s not that hard.
Adults in Their 30s Still at Home
It’s time to move out.
While we all want our children to be responsible, should we really expect them to tackle every chore under the sun? It’s essential to remember that not all kids will excel in the same areas. For instance, one child may love cleaning, while another might prefer walking the dog or tinkering with gadgets—both valuable skills for the family.
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In summary, it’s crucial to find a balance in expectations for chores among kids of all ages. Realistic chore assignments can help foster independence while ensuring parents aren’t overwhelmed.