Toddlers are capable of so much more than we give them credit for. You will be amazed at how quickly children will want to start helping out around the house, especially if they are helping their parents or an older sibling. No matter what you’re doing, try to find lots of ways that your toddlers can get involved.
See the below age-appropriate chores list for children 9 months to 24 months to get some ideas:
In Their Room
- Beginning to help make beds – (begins with handing the pillows to mom until later.)
- Picking up toys and putting in the toy box (don’t really expect them to sort and organize too much at this age)
- Putting dirty clothes in a basket/hamper.
The Rest of the House
- Clean table and counter surfaces with an adult (give the child a small towel and water spray bottle.)
- Cleaning with mom (give the child a dust rag, child size broom, empty spray bottle for “pretend” cleaning.)
- Do simple errands (“Bring the diaper, please”, “Throw this in the trash, please,” etc.)
- Vacuuming with mom – let them hold onto vacuum while you push, or direct the hose if you have a canister vacuum.
- Watering plants (with pre-measured amounts!)
- Wiping up small spills and messes with a napkin or washcloth.
→ Related Content: 10 Simple Chore Tips that will Transform Your FamilyIn the Yard
- Clean yard (collect trash and toys, sweep with child size broom etc.)
Away From Home
- Simple help with groceries, such as: putting items in shopping cart, helping put items on the check-out conveyor, handing items to you to be put away at home.
You will also want to check out my Age Appropriate Chore Lists for other age groups.
I’ve also created a FREE, 15-page Chores Pack which is filled with chores list suggestions for the various age groups. It also contains several different chore chart templates to choose from. You can edit these chore charts online and then print them out. Or print blank copies first and then fill them in by hand. The choice is yours!
You can receive access to this FREE chore pack by subscribing below.
Question: How about you? What chores have you been able to give your toddler? How has giving your child chores helped to build their character? Please leave a comment below.
My son who is 18 months has been helping around the house for as long as he could. I found that having jobs was a good way to help guide him through his day – which was something that helped with tantrums and overall mood. Some of his “jobs” include cleaning up spills (or food he has thrown on the ground;), feeding the pets and wild birds with help, helping to pick up his toys, and doing laundry (he now knows each step and can do everything except put the soap in). Something I found that helped was to put things places that he could reach. For instance, the dog’s food plates and the washcloths are in drawers that he can open himself – which means he can initiate the process.
Great idea to put things where he can reach them! Stepping stools are also very handy when the kids are small. It’s great to hear about your positive experience. I’m sure it will encourage many who are trying to start this process with their own kiddos. Thanks for sharing! 🙂
My now 18 month old son loves helping, and has been since he started walking at 10 months. He does do most things from this list, like put things in the garbage/hamper, wipe up spills, water plants, pick up toys, fluff pillows/cushions, load the washer, etc. He is always excited to unpack the groceries, especially putting the stuff in the fridge and pantry (low shelves and drawer), naming the stuff as he goes along.
That’s wonderful. Sounds like you’re off to a good start!