The Study of Adult Development at Harvard Medical School continues its research
on “Why should kids help at home?”.
One of the key findings was that those who had responsibilities as children tended to
be more successful in their careers and personal lives.
The study suggests that children who learn to contribute to their household and
manage tasks develop skills that help them navigate challenges, work well with
others, and achieve their goals more effectively as adults.
This Harvard study indicates that allowing our children to help with chores when they
wish to can be highly beneficial for them.

Responsibilities for children at home depending on age:

Between 2 and 3 years old: At these ages they can already begin to collaborate in
simpler activities like:
● Pick up their toys
● Throwing things in the trash
● Watering plants
● Put their dirty clothes in the basket
● Eating alone
● Help preparing the schoolbag

Between 4 and 5 years old: At this age they begin to have more height and
strength and are already more aware of everything around them. Some examples of
tasks are:
● Choosing clothes and getting dressed alone
● Grooming themselves
● Setting and removing the table
● Washing dishes with supervision/helping with the dishwasher
● Prepare their backpack

Between 6 and 7 years old: They are already starting to be a little more
autonomous. Some tasks they can perform are:
● Make the bed
● Organize their desktop
● Do homework by themselves
● Vacuuming/sweeping the floor
● Remove dust from furniture

Between 8 and 9 years old: In this age group, children can already carry out more
complex tasks. Some examples are:
● Bathing alone
● Cleaning the floor
● Caring for the pet
● Prepare breakfast
● Cook simple dishes with supervision

Between 10 and 11 years old: At this stage children are already fully aware of
everything around them and are more responsible and independent. Some tasks that
can be added are:
● Clean their room
● Take the pet out
● Cleaning the garden or yard
● Hang clothes
● Caring for a younger sibling

From the age of 12: Children will already be able to develop all kinds of tasks. They
will be more autonomous and independent. Examples of tasks are:
● Change their bed sheets
● Take out the trash
● Make the purchase
● Cleaning glassware
● Do/Fold laundry

It is important to keep in mind that not all children have the same rhythm even if they
are the same age. We have to adapt the responsibility to the pace they carry and
then we can motivate them.