summer journal: chores
I looked around for a pretty system to use for chores this summer (something like this, or this, or this) but in the end everyone got a list on a sticky note. Sometimes easy is better than pretty. They get a new list everyday, except Sunday, with two or three things on it depending on our schedule. Picking up toys, brushing teeth, getting dressed, etc. are not chores, just things they are responsible for everyday. Our chores are more like this:
for the 6 1/2 year old:
- cleaning the bathroom (with a squirt bottle filled with vinegar and water)
- sweeping
- washing the floors
- doing dishes
- folding towels and sheets and putting them away
- weeding
- + any thing else the younger set can do
for the 5 year old:
- vacuuming (his favorite)
- taking out the garbage
- wiping down the refrigerator, stove, dishwasher
- emptying the dishwasher
- folding clothes and putting them away
- + anything his younger brother can do
for the almost 3 year old:
- crushing cans (I was surprised he could even do this!)
- wiping off the table
- folding napkins and rags
- bringing in the groceries
- feeding the dog
- watering the plants
Honestly, I had been doing most (umm, all) of the chores because I thought it was easier and faster to do it myself. Well that was stupid. My kids do whatever is on their list and almost never complain that their chores are too hard. Complaining happens for other reason, for sure, but not because the work is difficult. As long as I mix it up enough they are happy to do their jobs. Do you have any good ideas for chores little kids can do?
