Age-Appropriate Chores for Kids: Ideas from 4 to 12

Chores teach kids that a home runs on teamwork, and they build real skills along the way. The trick is choosing jobs that match your child's age, so they can succeed on their own. Every child is different, so treat these lists as starting points.

Ages 4 to 5

• Put toys back in the toy box
• Put dirty clothes in the laundry basket
• Help feed a pet (with a grown-up)
• Make the bed, even if it's a little lumpy
• Set out napkins and spoons for dinner

Ages 6 to 8

• Set and clear the table
• Water plants
• Match socks and put away their own clothes
• Wipe the bathroom sink
• Pack their own school bag

Ages 9 to 12

• Load or empty the dishwasher
• Vacuum a room
• Take out the trash and recycling
• Help make a simple meal or their own lunch
• Fold and put away a load of laundry

How to make a chore chart that works

1. Start small. Two or three daily jobs is plenty to begin with.
2. Show, then share, then step back. Do the chore together a few times before they do it alone.
3. Make it visible. Put the chart at their eye level, where they'll see it every day.
4. Agree on rewards together. Kids work harder toward a reward they helped choose.
5. Praise effort, not perfection. A lumpy bed made without being asked is still a win.

Our Kids Chore and Reward Chart includes a weekly chore chart, a 30-star reward tracker and morning and evening routine charts for ages 4 to 12. Pair it with the cleaning schedule so the whole family shares the load.

Keep reading: Weekly meal planning for busy families · Family planner templates