At what age did the children start doing these things? We have 5. Our oldest is 11,our twins are almost 8, our youngest son is almost 5 and our baby is 1. Our oldest son helps out a lot. With our twins they do a little and our youngest son…..wellhe doesn't like to do anything! LOL He's our honest child and will tell you I don't want to do much! Was just curious about the timing.

Thanks for posting your list.I love your blog so much that when I turn on my computer your blog pops up insteadof anything else. :0)

Angie

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First let me say, I am no expert! Every family is different.

But…

I am a firm believer that if a child can pull the toy out, he can put it away, within reason that is.

Even 2-3 year olds can pick up toys, fold washcloths, place plates on the table if they are unbreakable. You'll have to re-fold them when he is not looking, and organize the table again, but encourage him to be helping!

I think by the time they are 4 they should have a few things they are responsible for. They can empty the small trash cans, set and clear the table if you don't use glass, dry dust (no chemicals), carry clothes to the bedroom, etc…

By the time they are 5-6 they should be able to do most any basic chore, although it won't be done perfectly. It takes mom or dad doing the chore along side them MANY times before they get the hang of it. It helps if you can put an older child with a younger child.

Of course the older they get the more responsibility you add. By 8 washing the dishes should not be a problem, except for knives. They can clean mirrors, vacuum, do most anything, not perfectly, but practice makes perfect.

As far as the 5 year old and his honesty, lol…well it's time to motivate that youngin'! ;o) I think every family has one like that. It keeps life challenging, um…fun!

Everyone has different abilities. When they are young you are looking more for a good attitude than you are quality.

Parenting, the child training part, is tough and wearisome some days, but oh the benefits as they mature. They can become a blessing to you and those around them.

After making every mistake that can be made I can look back and wish I'd been more patient and more consistent. I should have left so many outside commitments out of our schedule and spent more time shepherding their hearts. It is almost impossible to truly train your children to be responsible at home with a spirit of others first, if we don't stay home and teach it.

The young years are the training years, not only training their obedience, but training their hearts to love God and serve others. Once that has been instilled, then the family can reach out to others.

I hope that answers your questions.