Children are sometimes capable of more than we think they are. We sometimes forget to give children the opportunity to be challenged or to learn new skills. Here are some suggestions of ways you can have your child help out more around the house at all different ages.
How can my 2-3 YEAR OLD help out:
- pick up toys and put them into buckets
- Match the bucket with a picture
- put dirty clothes in the hamper
- take clothes out of the dryer
How can my 4-5 YEAR OLD help out:
- pick out pajamas/clothes for the day
- put dirty clothes away
- pick up toys
- use a small broom to sweep
- match socks from the laundry
- dust low surfaces with a dry duster
How can my 6-7 YEAR OLD help out:
- clean their room/playroom
- make their beds
- take sheets off their bed
- put away their clean clothes
- help organize laundry
How can my 8+ help out:
- vacuum the house
- wipe down the bathrooms
- clean their rooms
- empty the dishwasher
- start making their own food -start with non-cook items to easy to cook items
- clean the dishes/kitchen
It may not be done perfectly, but kids will learn from these experiences. Giving children the opportunity to help out more will give them the sense of purpose and belonging that they desire. Helping out also allows them to have some independence. All of the activities in these lists can be modified for children to meet them at their level. Having a child feel like they are included in the activity will create that sense of belonging.
