General Parenting

[MsMacy2]

I've been pretty lenient on involving my 2 kids (preschool and first grader) in doing household chores. I think this is the summer I'm going to involve them in some more responsibility around the house. What chores do you have your kids help with? Anyone have suggestions for things kids can help out with (that won't actually create more work for me!)?

[afraser217]

I have this pinned on Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/pin/37436240623161906/ It has a bunch of age appropriate chores.

Commuter Mom also blogged about this a few months ago!  Here's the post on Chores & Allowance: http://blogs.brighthorizons.com/momtomom/2012/03/14/chores-allowance/ 

Using a rewards system with stickers is a great idea too.  When they get a certain number of stickers they get a prize (or something along those lines).  It works for my 3.5 year old!

Hope that helps.

[Caty]

Hi MsMacy2! Great question - I'm sure this is one that many parents encounter. There's an e-family news article on chores for children that I think you'll find helpful: Chores - How to Involve Your Child

Also, there was another lively discussion on the Online Community a few months back that yielded some great ideas about chores for kids. Check it out here:  http://community.brighthorizons.com/t5/Kindergarten-School-Age/Earning-Allowance-for-chores-any-tips...

[KarrieT]

I used a great list from WebMD of recommended chores by age when coming up with some ideas for my preschooler. Here's a link to the entire list for all ages: http://www.webmd.com/parenting/features/chores-for-children?page=4

My son doesn't have set chores, but as things come up around the house I do involve him. These are some the tasks I usually have my preschooler help with:

• Clean up, put toys away
• Wipe up drink spills or clean crumbs after dinner
• Put clothes in hamper
• Empty utensils from dishwasher
• Help feed our pets