Did you know that kids who do chores go on to become more successful adults? There are a ton of benefits to assigning your kids chores. It encourages them to become more responsible, boosts their self-esteem, teaches the importance of delayed gratification, and so much more.
As I navigated the different age-appropriate chores for kids and assigned my children various household tasks, I quickly realized that two important things were missing: organization and accountability. As any busy parent knows, it can be a pain trying to ensure everyone is staying on top of their chores. I was almost desperate for a solution that would give my kids more accountability and save me from sounding like a broken record by constantly reminding them of their responsibilities.
A chore chart was the game-changer. It helped me just as much as it helped my kids. So, today I’m passing on this wisdom to you. I’m sharing how you can make a kids’ chore chart that will work for your family!
Creating a Chore Chart for Kids: Tips and Tricks
A chore chart is a visual used to keep track of household tasks. They are often used to help parents stay organized and assign tasks while also making it easy for children to know which chores they’re responsible for.
I’m sure many of you understand how difficult it can be to get your kids to do their chores. It can feel like pulling teeth and often seems like it would be easier to just do it yourself. But then we’d miss out on the numerous benefits of assigning kids chores. A chore chart can help eliminate the struggle.
One of the biggest benefits of using chore charts for kids in our home is that they empower our kids to be more responsible with their chores. I also love that all of my children can be more involved in household duties. There are a ton of free printable chore charts available online, but the best way to ensure you have one that works for your family is to make it yourself. Don’t worry, there’s no wrong way to make a chore chart!
Here are some helpful tips on how to make a chore chart for your kids.
How To Make a Chore Chart for Kids
Plan It Out
Before you can begin delegating tasks you need to know what all needs to be done. Make a list of all the tasks required to keep your home clean, organized, and functioning optimally. Be as thorough and specific as possible. You might also find it helpful to designate specific days for some chores, like if, for example, you prefer to do laundry only on the weekends or dust once a week.
Common household chores include:
- Vacuuming
- Making the bed
- Washing, folding, and putting away laundry
- Washing and putting away dishes
- Cleaning the bathroom(s)
- Dusting
- Mopping
Choose Age Appropriate Chores
With all your chores written down, you can then go through the list and make a note of which ones are age-appropriate for each member of your household. A preschooler probably isn’t the right person to clean the bathroom, but they can help pick up toys and put away laundry. On the other hand, depending on the age of your children, each person can be responsible for making their own bed.
Design And Create
There are countless ways to make a chore chart. You can draw your own chart on a dry-erase board or chalkboard, design one online using a site like Canva, or keep it simple using only a pen and a piece of paper.
You can create an interactive kid’s chore chart like this cute one from Mom Thoughts or this DIY chore chart from Lemon Squeezy Home. This chore chart from That Inspired Chick is perfect for older kids who could use a visual incentive. If you prefer a simple, straightforward chore chart, you can create one like this from One Project A Day. You can also find a sample from Mommy Diary below!
Incorporate A Reward System
Here’s the thing about kids: they can be pretty darn stubborn. If there’s no obvious benefit, many won’t exactly be thrilled to follow even the most well-designed chore chart. That’s where rewards come into play.
Money is an enticing reward for older kids, but less so for the little ones. For your younger children, think about what they enjoy. Maybe they would be motivated by a trip to the library, extra screen time, or a small toy. Incorporating a reward into a child’s chore chart is a great way to encourage them to do their chores without nagging them.
Display The Chart Where Your Kids Can See It
Now that you have a chore chart for your kids, you need to find a place to put it. Choose a spot that your kids walk by often, where it can be easily seen. You can hang it on the fridge, in the living room, or on their bedroom door.
Chore charts are great for encouraging kids to participate in household duties.
Ever since I became a mom, I’ve been a big proponent of things that make life with kids easier. Chore charts for kids are just one of the many tools in my “mommy toolkit.” I share a ton of them on my blog, so be sure to check them out. Your sanity will thank you!
