You’ve read the advice more than once–kids, even young ones, can and should help around the house. Here’s what they can do:
Make It Better asked Annette B. Kulle, Head of School at Countryside Montessori School in Northbrook for a few practical chores and activities kids can accomplish that contribute to the family.
“Children should be expected to do not only what serves them (making their bed, picking up their toys),” she writes, “but also what contributes to the family (sorting laundry, emptying the dishwasher). All of these things contribute to independence.”
Here are some great suggestions from Kulle for toddlers through teens:
- Watering plants
- Cutting fruit
- Shoveling snow, raking leaves
- Feeding the birds
- Cleaning up spills
- Vacuuming
- Preparing a snack
- Zipping coat
- Carrying own belongings
- Carrying groceries into the house
- Using a napkin at mealtimes
- Pouring his or her own beverage
- Serving others at mealtimes before self
- Greeting a family friend
- Offering comfort to a crying friend
What does your family do? Leave a comment below:
