ChoriosHow it works
‹ Guides

Age-appropriate chores for kids (ages 4 to 12)

Use these ages as a starting point, rather than a checklist your child should already manage. Experience and support needs matter too. Pick one job to try together this week. Show each step and stay nearby until you are comfortable that your child can do it safely.

2 min read

Ages 4 to 5

One small step

  • Put toys away
  • Feed a pet
  • Put dirty clothes in the basket
  • Wipe up small spills
  • Put napkins on the table

A single clear action is often a useful starting point at this age. Show them where things go and work alongside them, especially when feeding pets.

Ages 6 to 7

A short sequence

  • Make their bed
  • Set the table
  • Help sort laundry
  • Put books away
  • Clear the table

Some children are ready to try a short sequence, such as carrying dishes over and placing them at each seat. A picture checklist may help; leave sharp or hot items to an adult.

In ChoriosTheir dayWhat to do now, and what is left today.

Ages 8 to 9

Practise a whole job

  • Load or unload the dishwasher
  • Water the plants
  • Take out the recycling
  • Fold and put away clean towels
  • Sweep the floor

A small job from start to finish may suit children who have practised parts of it before. Agree what finished looks like and check together afterwards; an adult handles sharp items.

In ChoriosPoints land the moment they tickYour child sees their progress straight away. Turn on confirming for the chores you want to check.

Ages 10 to 12

Build on familiar skills

  • Walk the dog
  • Cook a simple meal
  • Run a load of laundry
  • Vacuum the floor
  • Change their bedsheets

Try agreeing a finishing time together for familiar chores. Keep adult supervision where needed, especially for dog walks and cooking.

In ChoriosIt is their goalThey choose what they save for, so every chore goes toward something they actually want.

How many chores a day

1small chore a day to begin with
2chores a day can suit an older child who already helps

Try one small daily chore first. For an older child who already helps regularly, two may be manageable. Judge by the time and effort involved, rather than the number alone.

Leave space for play and rest. Add another job only when the current amount feels manageable for both of you.

Making it stick

Keep the list visible and try linking each chore to a familiar moment, such as after breakfast.

After a week, ask what felt easy and what needed help. Choose one adjustment together. You might move a chore to another time or practise a tricky step again.

Chorios has more than 200 ready-made chores, with starter sets for ages 4 to 6, 7 to 10 and 11 and up. You can use these as a starting point and choose the chores that fit your child. See how it works

Next guide

How to get kids to do chores

3 min readRead ›

Chorios is free.

Every chore and every child, for as long as you like.

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play