Simple Chores Teach Preschoolers Many Skills

Children as young as 18 months are able to help with simple chores around the house, but for preschoolers, hands-on helping is an opportunity to grow and learn. By giving their preschooler responsibilities and a chance to master new skills, parents are encouraging independence and building strong self-confidence.

By pitching in, preschoolers learn about cooperation and teamwork. They learn about taking care of themselves and their belongings. Preschoolers who have assigned chores also develop an awareness that everyone in the family can – and should — contribute and participate.

Set Up for Success

Many parents are tempted to do things for their preschooler because it is easier and faster. There are a few tricks parents can use to make preschooler chores fun and manageable.

Set realistic expectations. Parents who go behind a preschooler and “fix” something, like refolding towels, are sending their child a message that his effort wasn’t good enough. It takes time and practice to get good at something, and preschoolers should be encouraged for what they do accomplish.

Factor in time. Preschoolers are curious and playful, so a simple chore like putting away canned goods can turn into building a pyramid or rolling cans across the floor. Gentle reminders will keep preschoolers on track. It is also a good idea to let preschoolers start a task when they have plenty of time to complete it.

Make chores kid-friendly. Sometimes a few simple modifications can make chores easier for preschoolers. Hang coats on hooks instead of hangers. Use plastic dishes and cups. Pre-portion snacks into small plastic containers. Buy clothing in one or two complimentary colors.

Chore time can be lesson time. Whether setting the table or weeding the garden, chores can easily be turned into a learning opportunity. Preschoolers can count forks, talk about family relationships, discover how plants grow, explore textures and colors, and much more.

Let preschoolers help whenever possible. A busy child is a happy child, and that means less whining and nagging. For example, instead of trying to entertain a bored preschooler in the grocery store, parents can let him look for certain items or cross them off a list.

Create a To Do list. An easy way to empower preschoolers is to create a list with words and pictures that will remind them of their responsibilities. They can help create the To Do list by cutting out pictures from magazines. Parents can then write a simple one or two word phrase. Hang the list on the refrigerator or other central location.

Encourage responsibility. Parents can teach preschoolers to be proud of their accomplishments with a simple sticker chart or reward system. Some parents allow a special treat like extra story time when a jar is filled with marbles, which their preschooler receives when a chore is finished. Other parents create a monthly calendar and their preschooler receive a special sticker for every day he did his chores.

Age-Appropriate Chores for Preschoolers

Feed the family pet

Carry in the mail

Dress themselves

Wipe table with damp cloth

Sort laundry

Clear and set the table

Put away recyclables

Locate items in the grocery store

Wash hands

Walk pets

Dust

Put away groceries

Pick up toys

Help with meal preparation

Water plants

Fold towels

Wipe up spills

Put books on shelf

Empty wastebaskets

Make their bed

Use a small or lightweight vacuum

by Maria Connor