I think as parents, we are constantly questioning whether or not we are doing our part to raise up children who are responsible, kind, productive and the list goes on and on. I think we can probably all agree we aim for that, so let's dive in and discuss some chores your 5-8 year old can likely accomplish on a regular basis. 

Step 1 for many families is to make a chore list. There are so many free printable options 

online that can get you started. If charts are not your jam (they are not mine), then just show your kiddos what is expected of them throughout the home and their lives and be sure to stay consistent with those expectations each and every day. 

Chores For Your 5-8 Year Old

Dishes: help to set the table, clear the table and load the dishwasher 

Clean Up: clean up their own mess and even be helpful in cleaning up another family member's mess

Pets: pour food and water for pets

Mail: as long as safety permits, kids can get the mail at this age

Bedroom: making the bed, putting clothes in hamper, picking up toys

General Cleaning: dusting tables, vacuuming, wiping bathroom sinks

Outdoor: pick vegetables, rake leaves, pick weeds, wash car with a parent

Time: use an alarm clock for waking up on time

School: homework completion and keeping track of assignments 

(they will likely need help with this one)

Personal Hygiene: brush teeth, shower, wash hands, floss 

(5 is a little on the young side for many of these chores but it's never too early to introduce them)

Laundry: sort clothes, put clothing in washer (mom or dad can set the cycle) and transfer clothing to dryer

Every family has a different routine and manages life in their own unique way. I think the key to raising responsible children is to take the time to teach them what is expected of them, explain why it's important to contribute and stay consistent with those expectations each and every day. Of course, there are going to be plenty of days when chores are not accomplished and that's OK too! We should all try to be somewhat flexible, while also aiming to stay on track with chores. 

If you're having difficulty with a child who does not want to help out around the home, sometimes it can be helpful to turn chores into a race or game. I guess I'm a little on the "tough" side because I expect certain things to be done no matter how "boring" they may be. 

Chores and responsibility go hand in hand. Teaching our kids to be responsible starts at home, with us. It's a priceless part of their character development they will carry with them throughout their entire lives! Do you have any tips or perhaps different chores you would like to share? Please share in the comments below! We are all in this parenting thing together. 

BLESSINGS,