The Dreaded... or Not So ... Dreaded Chore Chart

Chores. The word brings a myriad of images to mind and none particularly positive especially in the eyes of children.

As a mother of 9-year-old old twin boys and a 6-year-old boy, I pretty much do all of the household chores including shopping and cooking. As the children are getting older, it’s struck me that it’s high time for some consistent chores. 

How old should kids be to start chores? Should they get paid? 

One of my dearest friends and mother of four had come up with a printed list of chores for each of her kids who range from age 4 to 13. Each child is given age-appropriate tasks. I based my chores loosely on hers and tailored the tasks to meet each child’s abilities and strengths including my son who has some special needs. 

What Age Should Kids Start Chores?

It’s true that newborns can’t do chores but once they are toddling about they can put their toys in a bin. Tasks must be age-appropriate and safe. Yes, it’s easier to do it ourselves but it’s so important to give kids a sense of purpose and accomplishment including toddlers. Keep expectations reasonable as kids won’t do the job you do but it’s the process that counts. 

Should You Pay Your Kids?

This is a very personal choice so every family should decide what is right for them. Many people pay their kids to do chores but here’s another way to look at it. An important part of socialization is instilling a sense of good will in children and teaching them to help others. Families benefit from a sense of teamwork and togetherness and that includes maintaining the workings of the home.  “What’s in it for me?” seems to be a common mantra these days. Giving something to get something can send the wrong message. We do not pay our kids to do the few chores they have been assigned as we feel it is part of pitching in as a family. They keep the house going in their own, small way by making their beds for instance plus it gives them a sense of pride. They do receive money for other things though. 

Positive Results

What started with some groans and depressed stares has flourished into each child having a sense of purpose and, “Hey, that’s my job and I do it well!” when it comes to chores. My older twin empties the dishwasher, not every single time but enough that it helps. Our agreement is that if there is something that is too high even with the stepstool he leaves it on the counter. My other twin puts wet clothes into the dryer and turns it on (with my supervision) and my youngest is responsible for putting away all the toys in the play room. 

These boys are going to be the future husbands, co-workers and fathers of the world, so teaching them to have a helping attitude when they’re young helps shape them into adults who easily lend a hand.