Quick answer
Toddlers can put toys away and help wipe spills. Preschoolers can set out napkins and feed pets with help. Children aged 6 to 9 can make beds, pack lunches and sort laundry. Tweens can do laundry, vacuum and cook simple meals. Teens can handle most household jobs, including meal planning and yard work. Always match jobs to your child's skill, not just their age.
01
Ages 2 to 3
At this age, chores are about joining in. Expect help, not perfection.
- Put toys in a bin
- Put dirty clothes in the hamper
- Wipe up small spills
- Carry their own cup to the counter
02
Ages 4 to 5
Preschoolers love being trusted with a real job.
- Set napkins and spoons on the table
- Feed pets with supervision
- Match socks
- Water plants
- Make their bed simply
03
Ages 6 to 9
School-age children can own a job from start to finish.
- Make their bed every morning
- Pack part of their lunch
- Sort and put away laundry
- Empty small trash cans
- Help prepare simple food
04
Ages 10 to 12
Tweens can take on multi-step jobs and learn real life skills.
- Run a load of laundry
- Vacuum and mop
- Cook a simple meal with supervision
- Clean the bathroom sink and mirror
- Take out household trash and recycling
05
Ages 13 and up
Teens can handle most adult household work and build independence.
- Plan and cook a family meal
- Do all of their own laundry
- Mow the lawn or do yard work
- Help with grocery lists and shopping
- Deep clean a room
06
Skill matters more than age
These lists are starting points. Some children are ready sooner, others need more time. Watch what your child can do safely and confidently, and move up when they are ready.
Key takeaways
- Even toddlers can help with simple jobs.
- Give school-age children full ownership of a job.
- Tweens and teens can learn real life skills like laundry and cooking.
- Match jobs to skill and safety, not age alone.
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