Let’s talk about RESPONSIBILITIES! I really dislike the word chores as it has a negative connotation. I find that responsibilities positively frames the action and entices the child to participate.

Now how do you get your child (or children) to participate in responsibilities? First, routine is key. Making it part of your daily routine makes it easier. Second, having a visual diagram helps the child know what to do and when. Third, having a family meeting where everyone comes together to decide the responsibilities. And everyone should participate, including parents/caregivers on the responsibilities. Additionally, if there are multiple children, they can take turns doing various responsibilities so it’s not as monotonous.

Here are some examples:

• Washing dishes (I start this ~age 4/4.5 years old)

• Bringing dishes to sink (starting at age 2 with assistance)

• Drying dishes

• Putting dishes/silverware away (age 2 with assistance)

• Wiping table (age 3)

• Making bed (age 4, but you can ask your 2 year old to put their lovey on one side of crib to start the bed making process)

• Putting clothes away- in dedicated baskets