Kids should start doing chores at 18 months according to experts – here’s what they need to do and when
WITH the kids now at home permanently as the UK continues its lockdown, there’s never been a better time to get them doing chores.
Even if you have very young children, experts have claimed youngsters can start helping out from 18-months-old.
⚠️ Read our coronavirus live blog for the latest news & updates
18-months-old to three
Dr Deborah says parents should take advantage of a toddler’s ‘independence’ at this age, with kids eager to do things themselves.
To follow us on Facebook, simply .
Get Britain's best-selling newspaper delivered to your smartphone or tablet each day - .
Nine to 11-year-old
Dr Deborah says parents should really take advantage of their child’s problem solving skills as they get older.
She said: “These will take a while to learn, but are great for sharpening their planning and problem-solving skills as well as — eventually — taking something off your plate."
12 to 13-years-old
At this age it’s best to give them a job which connects to their life in some way.
For example Dr Deborah says if they’re a foodie, get them to prep veggies, wash up or cook dinner.
Or if they need lifts to lots of activities, get them to clean the car.
14 to 18-years-old
At this age they should be able to handle complex chores, such as cooking dinner for everyone once a week or helping out with bigger projects around the house.
Dr Deborah adds this is the perfect age to delegate a task which you don’t like, pointing out some youngsters would have had paying jobs by this age.
16 to 18-year-old
By now your kids should be ready for adulthood, but these years are important to teach them key life skills.
Dr Deborah says tasks such as paying bills and car maintenance should be taught in a relaxed way over the summer, noting every skill you teach them is “one less thing you have to do”.
Mums reckon the 30 day Lego challenge is the perfect way to keep the kids entertained during coronavirus lockdown.
READ MORE SUN STORIES
Meanwhile this mum-of-seven shared the homeschooling regime she’s been doing for years and says 1-3 hours of study is more than enough.
And mums are sharing hilarious memes as they grapple with homeschooling their kids.