Jobs for little people...

If you have children, you may be wondering how long you have to wait before getting them to pitch in and help with the crazy mess which you call home. The answer is...as soon as they can walk. I know that was music to your ears, but calm yourself, put down the pen and paper and push that list to the back of your mind- they won't be clearing out the guttering any time soon.

Tiny hands need tiny jobs, but as their little hands get a little bigger, their responsibilities can grow too. Some people have chore charts and reward charts to get their children motivated, some people bribe theirs with chocolate biscuits (and their partners too-thanks Adam!) but, I just gradually eased them into their new roles in the house over time. Below is a list of when my children started being 'mummy's little helper' and the tasks they were given. This is what I felt was appropriate for them, you may think your children should do more or less, this isn't a guide on what to do with your children, this is just what I did and still do with mine.

1-2 YEARS

Helping to pick up and put away toys.

2-4 YEARS

Dusting and doing washing up once a week-this is just washing up their own plastic plates, cups and utensils , but my children enjoyed it so much they wanted to do it more!

My 'little kitchen helper' also used to love making sandwiches with me. He'd cut them up and other soft things like bananas.

4-6 YEARS

Putting their dirty laundry in the wash basket each day.

Helping fold the clean towels, pillow cases and pair up the socks once a week.

At this age they ask to have a go with the hoover, sweeping or mopping, I don't discourage them, I let them "play clean", even if it means having to do it all again after. If I sweep up, my youngest loves being 'Chief in Charge' of the dustpan and brush!

6-8 YEARS

Wiping down the table before dinner and setting out the placemats, cutlery and sauces.

My children loved weeding in the garden with me. As long as I was with them I didn't loose too many flowers during this process (luckily they also enjoyed planting too).

8-10 YEARS

Hoovering their bedroom and one other room in the house once a week.

Changing their pillow cases when the bedding is to be washed.

Putting away their clean laundry.

10 YEARS

Unloading and loading the dishwasher, two days a week.

Changing all their bed sheets.

12 YEARS

Mowing the lawn (my children are sensible at this and wear appropriate footwear)

Helping to wash the car.

Folding clothes and nipping to the corner shop for bits and bobs.

At 13- 15 years old the children received a fair amount of homework, so I have not increased their responsibilities at home at the moment for this reason- I do still want happy children, who have the time to talk to me! Despite this, my older boys have actually offered to help with the renovations to our house and are both enthusiastic about helping, which is lovely to see. They make me extremely proud to be their mum. I will be showing them how to do laundry and ironing when they turn 16, so wish me luck with that!

Increasing the children's chores over time, meant it wasn't too overwhelming. Explaining to them that their actions are their responsibility, meant that when they made a mess, they knew it was their responsibility to clear it up. 'Parent' does not mean 'servant'.

A long time ago a man of 28 years old told me, in all seriousness, that he did not know how to fold clothes. Yep! That's right! He did not have a clue.

When my sons leave home, they will not be worrying about all the things that I have mentioned above, as they'll know how to change sheets and mow the lawn. They will be independent, prepared and capable men because we will have given them the life skills they need. I feel sure they would probably argue they could stand to have a few less though.

x