How to Organize a Chore Schedule for Kids

When you write out a to-do list, you̵7;re more likely to actually get things done -- the same principle applies to your kids. Creating a chore schedule helps avoid the moaning and pouting response and makes sure tasks get done around the house -- and you don̵7;t have to do them all yourself. According to the Center for Parenting Education, children who do chores are more likely to have high self-esteem, develop responsibility and effectively handle frustration than kids who don̵7;t. Also, once you develop these skills, your kids are much more likely to carry these tools throughout their lives. They might groan now, but your kids will thank you when they̵7;re 20.

Things You'll Need

  • Pen and paper

Instructions

    • 1

      Make a list of all the chores that need to be done around the house. Make a check mark next to any chores that are feasible for your child. For example, your 3-year-old can̵7;t mow the lawn, but he can pick up his toys. If you have multiple children, write their initials next to the chores they can complete.

    • 2

      Create a calendar with the name of each day of the week running across the top of the paper. Draw lines down the page to create columns. In a separate column on the left side of the paper, write a list of chores to be completed. Make it a comprehensive list, even though each chore doesn̵7;t need to be completed every day. Draw lines across the paper to create rows.

    • 3

      Let your kids help you decorate the chore schedule. They can draw pictures of a given task or use stickers to bring some color to the chart.

    • 4

      Write your child̵7;s name or initials inside a box that corresponds to a particular day and chore. For example, point your finger to Monday and trace the column down until you get to the chore ̶0;make your bed,̶1; and write your child̵7;s name inside the box.

    • 5

      Continue filling in boxes until every chore that needs to be done on a given day is accounted for. Don̵7;t forget to write your own name in some boxes -- your kids won̵7;t let you get away with making them do all the work.

    • 6

      Display the chore schedule on the fridge or other prominent place in your home. You can also create a daily task list from the main schedule for each of your children, so they have a step-by-step list of what they need to do that day.

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