As parents, we often wonder when our little ones should start helping around the house. The answer might surprise you. By the time your little one is a toddler, they’ll be ready and willing to contribute to the family team! Encouraging young children to participate in age-appropriate chores comes with a host of benefits, from boosting their confidence to developing their sense of responsibility. Plus, it’s never too early to show them that tidying up can be fun (or at least less of a struggle)!
How chores support toddler development
According to a study published in Parenting Science, involving young children in household tasks nurtures essential life skills, teaches cooperation, and promotes independence. Researchers found that chores done in the early years foster a sense of belonging and self-worth and that those traits continued to flourish well into adulthood.
But the benefits aren’t just long-term. When toddlers engage in simple chores, they also practice motor skills, communication, and problem-solving. Picking up toys isn’t just about cleaning, it’s about learning how to follow directions and take pride in small achievements. When you frame these chores as opportunities rather than burdens, you lay the foundation for teamwork and connection.
Tips for starting chores with toddlers
When starting to delegate chores to your toddler, the key is to keep it simple, make it fun, and celebrate their efforts. Tasks should be easy to accomplish and suited to their developmental stage. Be patient and give lots of praise—this is a time to build their confidence, not expect perfection! Remember, toddlers love to feel like they’re helping.
10 simple, toddler-friendly chores
Grab our downloadable guide and weekly chore chart here!
Here are Harbor’s top 10 easy chores that are both age-appropriate and confidence-boosting for toddlers:
1. Picking up toys
Encourage your little one to put their toys back into bins or baskets after playtime, and set a timer or sing a clean-up song to turn it into a game.
2. Wiping surfaces
Toddlers can use a damp cloth to wipe down a table or their highchair tray after meals. It’s a fun way to practice fine motor skills!
3. Feeding pets
If you have a pet, your toddler can scoop their food into a dish (with supervision, of course) to demonstrate caretaking and responsibility.
4. Putting dirty clothes in a hamper
Toddlers love to toss things, so why not channel that energy into throwing dirty clothes into the laundry basket?
5. Helping set the table
Let your little one place napkins, plastic cups, and unbreakable utensils on the table. They’ll beam with pride at their contribution to mealtime!
6. Watering plants
A small watering can is perfect for little hands. Teach them to give the plants a drink and you might spark a love for gardening.
7. Sorting laundry
Invite your toddler to help sort socks or fold washcloths. They’ll be able to practice their colors and matching in the process.
8. Putting away groceries
Hand them non-breakable, lightweight items to carry and put in a low pantry. It’s an engaging way to practice lifting and organizing.
9. Dusting surfaces
What little kid wouldn’t love to wave around a feather duster?!
10. Making their bed
While their version of making the bed may not be perfect, arranging pillows or spreading out the blanket will allow them to feel accomplished and teach them the value of a tidy room.
Building skills and connection
The chores themselves aren’t what really matters here. By giving your toddler household tasks to complete, you’ll be able to spend time working together, learn as a team, and connect over small victories. When you empower your toddler to help, you’re showing them that they have a valuable role in the family.
Next time your little one insists on being your helper, embrace it. Their chores may be tiny, but the benefits are huge. You’ll be amazed by how much they love being part of the action! Together, you’re building more than just a tidy home; you’re nurturing confidence, life skills, and a whole lot of family teamwork.
