Teaching responsibility should begin in early childhood. Even the littlest tots can take on a few challenges; just make sure the tasks are age-appropriate and you offer guidance and supervision when necessary.
Begin with simple responsibilities such as picking up their toys or putting their clothes in the hamper. Gradually increase the complexity of tasks as your child grows and develops new skills, keeping in mind that expecting too much or too little can lead to frustration or a lack of motivation.
See below for a guide on teaching responsibility at every stage, including examples of age-appropriate tasks or chores.
Age-Appropriate Tasks for Toddlers
Toddlers get especially excited when they figure out how to do things they see others doing. Flipping on and off a light switch seems magical to them, leading to giggles and a feeling of accomplishment. Channel that enthusiasm into a teachable moment and empower your little one to learn the appropriate time and place for showing off their new skills.
Below are some skills to work on with your toddler to teach them responsibility:
- Put away toys and help clean up messes — especially if they cause them!
- Turn on/off lights when entering and exiting a room.
- Throw away trash. (Be careful with this one – consider checking the bin occasionally to ensure only garbage has been discarded. Perhaps start with food-related trash such as banana peels and snack wrappers).
- Fill up a pet’s food bowl.
- Help with laundry and picking out clothes to wear.
- Carry dishes to the counter, sink, or dishwasher when mealtime ends.
- Wash hands, brush teeth, and wipe face.
- Use courtesy words such as “please” and “thank you”.
Age-Appropriate Tasks for Preschoolers
As your child gains more confidence in their abilities (and your trust in them grows, too), work with your preschooler on the following activities teaching responsibility:
- Water plants.
- Help set the table and unload dishwasher.
- Tidy up their room and make the bed.
- Help sort laundry and put clothes away.
- Pick out clothes and dress themselves completely.
- Carry light grocery bags and assist with putting groceries away.
- Be an active participant in a preschool program.
Other Ways to Teach Responsibility in Your Home
Beyond assigning chores, what are some other activities teaching responsibility that parents can implement with toddlers, preschoolers, and beyond? Let’s dive into more ideas below.
Be a Role Model of Responsibility
Guidance and consistency are key to teaching any new concept, but next-in-line is modeling the correct behavior. Demonstrate the qualities and actions you want your kids to emulate. Your actions speak louder than words, and your children will pick up on your habits and values. Show them how you take care of your responsibilities at home, work, and in your personal life.
To make things crystal clear, narrate your thought process with the same words and approach you take when encouraging your children to complete their work. For example, say, “I’m really excited for movie night with you, but first we have to clean up the kitchen. The handwash dishes are my responsibility and clearing the table is yours.