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Chores for kids by age

Not sure what your kids can handle? Here's a simple guide from toddlers to teens. Every child is different, so use it as a starting point and adjust to fit your family.

Ages 2–3

Little helpers. Do it together and keep it short.

  • Put toys in a bin
  • Put dirty clothes in the hamper
  • Wipe up small spills
  • Help feed a pet
  • Carry their cup to the counter

Ages 4–5

They can finish simple jobs on their own with a reminder.

  • Make their bed (a rough job counts)
  • Set napkins and spoons on the table
  • Match socks
  • Water plants
  • Clear their own plate

Ages 6–8

Ready for a daily routine and a few real household jobs.

  • Sort and put away laundry
  • Empty small trash cans
  • Sweep or use a hand vacuum
  • Pack their school bag
  • Help unload the dishwasher

Ages 9–11

Can handle multi-step jobs and take turns with siblings.

  • Load and run the dishwasher
  • Vacuum a room
  • Clean the bathroom sink and mirror
  • Make a simple breakfast or lunch
  • Take out the trash and recycling

Ages 12–14

Can own a whole area of the house.

  • Do their own laundry start to finish
  • Clean a full bathroom
  • Cook a simple dinner with help
  • Mow the lawn or rake leaves
  • Help younger siblings with routines

Ages 15+

Practice for living on their own.

  • Plan and cook a family meal
  • Grocery shop from a list
  • Wash the car
  • Deep-clean the kitchen
  • Run errands (if driving)

Tips that make chores stick

Show, then step back
Do the chore together a few times before expecting it done alone.
Keep the list short
Two or three daily chores beat a long list nobody finishes.
Same days, same jobs
A predictable schedule means fewer reminders and fewer arguments.
Praise the effort
A lumpy bed made by a 5-year-old is a win.
Make progress visible
Kids work harder when they can see what they've earned.

Turn chores into jelly beans

With jelly beans, kids earn a colored jelly bean for every chore done on time, and a golden bean on days they finish all their chores and homework. They spend golden beans on rewards you choose. Just ask jelly beans "What does Teddy have today?" or "Give Evie dishes on weekdays."

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