Doing chores lets children see themselves as important contributors to the family. They feel a connection to the family, and they feel more capable for having completed their tasks. On the other hand, not being taught the skills of everyday living can limit children’s ability to function at age-appropriate levels. For example, your child needs to know how to put on and zip their coat when they go to school. As they learn chores, children contribute to the family, begin to take care of themselves and learn skills they will need as an adult.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when giving your toddler chores:
• Keep it simple. Start with one chore.
• Shower them with praise.
• Make chores fun and exciting! Work along beside them, showing them how to do things. Smile, laugh and whistle as you work.
• Don’t expect perfection.
Some Simple Chores for Toddlers:
• Brush teeth- with help from mom or dad of course.
• Get dressed – and put dirty clothes in the hamper.
• Pick up toys - give a simple task like putting the blocks into the tub, or the books into the basket.
• Dust – give your toddler a sock and let him dust all the surfaces in a room.
It’s okay if it takes a while to learn these tasks. These are skills they can use for the rest of their life.
