As kids grow from ages 6 to 12, they gain new skills and can take on more responsibility. Using the Earnee app, you can incentivize your kids to take on responsibility and learn new skills and habits.
Here’s a general guideline of what chores or tasks and responsibilities might be appropriate for different ages. You, of course, know your own children best. These ideas are a jumping-off point:r
Ages 6-8:
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Basic Chores:
- Making their bed: Pull up covers, straighten pillows, put away blankets.
- Putting away toys: Sort toys into bins or shelves, keep play areas organized.
- Helping with laundry (sorting by color): Separate light and dark clothes.
- Setting the table: Place plates, napkins, utensils (with supervision for younger kids).
- Dusting: Wipe down surfaces with a safe cleaning cloth (under adult guidance).
- Watering plants: Learn how much water each plant needs (start with small watering cans).
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Learning Personal Responsibility:
- Taking care of belongings: Keep clothes clean and put away, treat toys and books gently.
- Keeping their room somewhat tidy: Pick up clothes, put away toys after use, make the bed most mornings.
- Completing schoolwork: Finish homework assignments on time, keep track of school supplies.
Ages 9-11:
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More Complex Chores:
- Sweeping: Use a child-sized broom to clean floors, learn proper sweeping techniques.
- Vacuuming: Learn how to operate a vacuum cleaner safely and effectively.
- Washing dishes: Wash silverware and dishes by hand, or help load and unload the dishwasher.
- Taking out the trash: Line the trash can with a bag, carry it outside and place it in the bin.
- Helping prepare meals: Wash vegetables and fruits, measure ingredients, set the table.
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Developing Responsibility:
- Keeping their room clean and organized: Make the bed daily, put away clothes, organize toys and books.
- Managing their time for schoolwork and hobbies: Plan a schedule, set reminders, finish homework before playtime.
- Helping with younger siblings (under supervision): Play with them, read stories, help with simple tasks.
Ages 11-12:
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Taking Initiative:
- Helping plan meals: Choose recipes, make grocery lists with adult guidance.
- Cleaning the bathroom or kitchen: Wipe down surfaces, scrub toilets (with proper cleaning products), sweep and mop floors.
- Yard work (raking leaves): Learn how to use a rake safely, clear leaves from designated areas.
- Washing the car (with supervision): Help with washing and drying the car under adult guidance.
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Maturity and Responsibility:
- Cooking simple meals: Prepare breakfast or snacks for themselves, follow recipes for basic dishes.
- Managing personal allowances: Set savings goals, learn budgeting principles, track expenses.
- Following through on commitments: Complete assigned tasks on time, be reliable.
- Planning and organizing their own time: Plan study schedules, manage extracurricular activities, prioritize tasks.