Every child needs to have responsibilities at home. This helps them feel useful, contribute to the family, and strengthen their confidence and independence.
But what kind of responsibilities can we give based on their age?
Ages 2–3:
• Put toys away
• Return TV remotes to their place
• Place napkins on the table
• Put groceries in the pantry
• Hand over clothespins during laundry
• Bring blankets to the couch
Age 4:
• Help with grocery shopping
• Feed the pet
• Water the plants
• Set the table
• Collect mail from the mailbox
• Prepare a simple snack
• Put dirty clothes in the laundry basket
Ages 5–6:
• Use money for small purchases
• Make and clean up breakfast
• Make their bed
• Take out the trash
• Clean mirrors or windows
• Dress themselves
• Answer the phone or call relatives
• Clean and care for the pet
Age 7:
• Bathe the pet
• Manage their pocket money
• Carry shopping bags
• Wake up with an alarm clock
• Pack their school bag
Ages 8–10:
• Do laundry
• Pack a bag for an overnight stay
• Organize their birthday party
• Prepare drinks for others
• Cook something simple
• Note and remember appointments
• Cross the street alone
• Shop with a list
• Change bed sheets
Tips for Success:
• Don’t expect perfection — especially at the beginning
• Don’t delay — it’s never too early
• Be consistent — don’t do for them what you’ve assigned
• Offer praise or use a reward system
Maria Lazarou
Speech and Language Therapist (SLP, BSc, M.A)
Head of the Multidisciplinary Team, Evlogon
