Last week during lunch with a good friend we got on the topic of kids and chores. What kind did we do growing up, what should our kids be doing, etc. The conversation has stuck with me as I wonder if my seven year old is doing enough around the house or if I let her off the hook a little too much.

My daughter has four main chores – she’s not rewarded in anyway (i.e. allowance) but is just expected to do them when asked. She is to unload the dishwasher, feed the dog, clean up her toys/messes, and wipe down toothpaste in the sink. She is also expected to read and do math work on the days she doesn’t have a lesson after school (the math work is like pulling teeth but not the point at the moment).

I do wonder, however, if she should be doing more. She’s seven and quite capable. Should I be making her pick up the doggie poo in the back yard? Should I be making her do laundry (which would be amazing!) or make her own lunches?

Sure there are loads of articles that spell out age appropriate chores for kiddos but what I wonder is where do we draw the line at chores? Kids today have more homework than ever and if you have any thought of your kid getting a college scholarship for playing a sport, well you better start those lessons at the age of 5.

Where does all that fit in with letting them be a kid – playing with their toys, drawing, reading, etc. While chores are important, the play time is important too even as our kids grow up.

I ask you, my amazing readers, what kinds of chores do your kids do?? How do you fit it all in to your days & schedules??