The Ultimate Chore List for Kids by Age

Every chore your kid can handle (organized by age)

A good chore list takes the guesswork out of "what should my child be doing?" This isn't about loading them up with work. It's about finding 3-5 tasks that match their ability, build their confidence, and contribute to the household.

If you haven't set up a tracking system yet, start with our complete chore chart guide. This list gives you the raw material to fill it with.

Ages 2-3: Tiny helpers

At this age, "chores" are really just imitation. They want to do what you do. Let them.

Put toys in a bin (+2)
Wipe up spills with a cloth (+2)
Put dirty clothes in the hamper (+2)
Carry unbreakable dishes to the table (+2)
Help "water" plants (with a small cup) (+2)

Expectations: It won't be done well. That's not the point. The point is participation.

Ages 4-5: Building habits

Make bed (it will be lumpy, accept it) (+4)
Set the table (forks and napkins) (+3)
Feed pets (+3)
Put shoes and backpack in their spot (+2)
Clear their plate after meals (+2)
Dust low surfaces with a cloth (+3)
Sort laundry by color (+3)

Expectations: They can do these independently with a reminder. The house rules should include "clean up after yourself" to reinforce the habit.

Ages 6-7: Real contributions

Sweep floors (+5)
Vacuum one room (with help) (+6)
Pack their own school bag (+3)
Make simple snacks (+4)
Water outdoor plants (+3)
Take out small trash cans (+4)
Fold towels and washcloths (+5)
Wipe bathroom sink (+5)

Expectations: These are genuine household contributions. They take 5-15 minutes and save you real time.

Ages 8-9: Growing independence

Load and unload the dishwasher (+6)
Take out trash and recycling (+5)
Fold and put away their own laundry (+8)
Help prepare dinner (chopping, stirring) (+7)
Clean bathroom surfaces (+8)
Sweep and mop kitchen (+7)
Organize a closet or drawer (+6)
Walk the dog (in safe areas) (+6)

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Ages 13+: Adult-level skills

All previous chores independently
Plan and cook a family meal (+10)
Deep clean a room (+10)
Do yard work (+10)
Manage their own schedule (+8)
Budget their allowance (+5)
Drive to errands (if licensed) (+8)

At this age, the chore chart becomes less about tracking and more about confirming. They should know what's expected without checking a list.

How to pick the right chores for YOUR child

Start with what annoys you most. If you're always picking up shoes, that becomes their chore. If the dishes sit in the sink, that's their job.

Match effort to maturity, not age. Some 7-year-olds can handle the dishwasher. Some 9-year-olds can't. Use age ranges as guidelines, not rules.

Include one "stretch" chore. One task that's slightly beyond their comfort zone. This is where growth happens.

Don't include everything at once. Pick 3-5 from the list above. Master those, then swap in new ones. For rewards to pair with chores to pair with these chores, check our full list.

Point values that feel fair

The numbers in parentheses above follow a simple logic:

2-3 points: Takes under 2 minutes, almost no skill required
4-5 points: Takes 2-5 minutes, basic skill
6-8 points: Takes 5-15 minutes, moderate effort
10 points: Takes 15+ minutes or requires significant skill

Keep demerits lower. "Left room messy" should cost 3 points, not 5. The system should always reward trying.

The bottom line

You don't need to invent chores. This list covers ages 2 through 18. Pick 3-5 that match your child's age and your household's biggest needs. Put them on a chart. Assign point values. Start tonight.

The chores themselves matter less than the consistency. A child who makes their bed every day for a year learns more about responsibility than a child who occasionally deep-cleans the kitchen.