Chores & Allowances for Preschoolers

It's a really good idea for parents to teach children at an early age that all families need to work together to make the household run and that each person can participate by doing his or her share. You have an advantage here in that preschoolers love to help! At this age they can: put away toys, sort the laundry, set the table, water the plants, clear their place after dinner, put recycling items in the container, assist with feeding pets, help with garden and yard work, help with grocery shopping by taking items off the shelf, help with cooking and baking. For very young children, things like brushing their teeth and dressing themselves can be a chore. Start small and add on as you progress.

Preschoolers don't usually care much about money, but will respond well to a chore chart. This gives children a visual reminder of what has to be done and encourages cooperation. Children can earn stickers when they complete a chore, and the stickers can lead to a reward. Think about rewards that are not material like toys are. Instead, try a trip to the zoo, getting to wear their favorite costume for a day, getting to choose their favorite dinner, picking out a favorite video at the video store or a special outing with either Mom or Dad. But be aware, too many rewards actually backfire and reduce their motivation.