Easy Chores for Kids: A Guide to Age-Appropriate Tasks (Preschool-2nd Grade)

David Dalcu • 8/15/2025

Engaging children in household chores from a young age is a great way to teach them responsibility and teamwork. For preschool to second-grade students (roughly ages 3 to 8), the key is to assign simple, age-appropriate tasks that are safe and can be done with some supervision.

Here are some easy chores for this age group, broken down by category:

Personal & Bedroom Chores

Picking up toys: This is a classic first chore. Have them put their toys in a designated bin or on a shelf after playtime.
Making the bed: A "perfect" bed isn't the goal. Have them pull the comforter or blanket up and arrange pillows.
Putting dirty clothes in a hamper: Teach them to place their clothes in the hamper instead of on the floor.
Putting away clean laundry: They can fold simple items like washcloths or towels and put their own clothes away in drawers.

Kitchen & Dining Chores

Clearing their own plate and cup from the table: Teach them to bring their dishes to the sink after a meal.
Wiping up spills: Give them a small rag to help clean up their own messes.
Setting the table: They can put out non-breakable items like napkins, placemats, and utensils.
Helping to put away groceries: Have them put away lightweight and non-breakable items, like a loaf of bread or a box of cereal.

General Household Chores

Dusting: Give them a duster and let them dust low surfaces like baseboards, coffee tables, or chair legs.
Helping to water plants: With supervision, they can use a small watering can to water indoor or outdoor plants.
Feeding pets: If you have a pet, they can help pour pre-measured food into the bowl.
Sorting laundry: They can help separate clothes by color (whites, darks, and colors) before you start a load.

Making chores a routine can be more effective than making them a negotiation. Platforms like Chorefunds.com can help by creating a fun and interactive system where children can earn rewards for completing their chores and other tasks, which can include both household responsibilities and academic work like practicing sight words or math.