Chore charts are also called reward charts, behavior charts, chore calendars, chore lists or task lists. A chore chart is a listing used to track and organize the house work. The chart can be physical or virtual and is often a means used by parents to post chores expected of their children.
Contents
- Age Appropriate Chores
- Everyday routine tasks
- 6 8 years Independent tasks
- 9 12 years Independent tasks with consequences
- Teenagers
- Reward for chores
- References
Different homes have different ways of organizing and implementing a chore system, including simple paper charts tacked on the refrigerator. There has been a lot of research, experiential evidence and discussion of chore charts.
Age Appropriate Chores
Chore charts list household tasks, sometimes one chore chart per child and sometimes a combined list. Since children of different abilities and ages can handle various responsibilities, the chores featured on a chore chart can be divided by age.
Younger children may not responsibly handle complex chores, but may still be able and want to help around the house. Easy chores can be included for younger kids. This may help instill the good habit of responsibility from an early age.
Below is a listing of age appropriate chores:
Everyday routine tasks
3-5 years:
6-8 years: Independent tasks
Children at 6–8 years old like to be independent, so chores they can do by themselves are an ideal fit. Some of these include:
9-12 years: Independent tasks with consequences
For children 9–12 years old consequences are important in instilling responsibility, so reward and punishment can be introduced. Chores and additional responsibilities can include:
Teenagers
Teenagers can handle most household chores, but reward and consequence are important now because their schedules may force them to be forgetful about household duties. More chores include:
Reward for chores
While some parents do not give allowance or reward for household chores, there is evidence that allowance and reward helps to create financially sound adults and teach financial responsibility.