3. Ages 6-8
By ages 6-8, children have started school and rely on parents to teach them the independence they need to be responsible and successful. Being organized and self-regulating are deeply important even to young students. They’ll be much more successful at school if they already know how to complete tasks, be organized, be respectful to rules and procedures, and help out. Don’t let chores become a negative experience! Yelling will only make children resentful towards chores. MODEL to children how you expect tasks to be completed and then provide encouragement and positive feedback. If chores are viewed as being fun and/or positive, children will carry those feelings with them as they mature. 6-8-year-olds can be successful with the following and similar chores:
– Loading homework and lunches into backpack (with a good double check from mom or dad! This teaches responsibility and accountability)
– Clean countertops
– Take trash out
– Fold laundry
– Make bed
– Help put the groceries away
– Water plants
Leave a Reply