Summer is here! We have had a few weeks off from the crazy school schedules so now it is time to think about chore lists for summer. There are some chores that should be done during summer.
There is no reason to do it all alone. Get the whole family in on it. Kids of all ages can help. Starting chores early is important for so many reasons.
Click here for a Summer Chore List by Age.
Chores teach kids responsibility, gives them a sense of belonging, accomplishment and self-esteem, and helps them develop important executive function skills. By doing chores children learn to follow steps (planning and prioritizing), focus their attention even when a tasks is boring (sustain attention) and learn how long tasks take them to complete (time management).
If your kids haven’t had chores before summer is a great time to start. It will allow them time to learn something new and develop it into a habit before school starts again. Also keep in mind that if your children aren’t used to doing chores regularly then you may need to have them start with chores for younger children. Take the time to really teach them how to do it if the chores are new to them. Watching you may not be enough and some kids need to be taught. If your children are pros then they may be able to handle chores for older kids. Pick and choose or let them. Summer should be fun but it’s no fun if you are the only one doing chores.