Becoming a Little Helper

Your Child Will Learn

That it feels good to help my family; the basics of how to do chores

Here’s What to Do

1. Let me “help” you with simple chores that are fun. 
2. Some age-appropriate chore ideas for me:
   • Dusting with a cloth or sweeping with a toy broom
   • Pulling weeds, raking, or picking up sticks
   • Sorting laundry or putting it away
   • Bringing you items from another room
   • Putting groceries away
   • Watering plants
   • Putting toys away
3. If I show an interest, try to let me “help” even if it will take longer for us to complete the chore together.

Put PEER Into Action

PAUSE

• Take a deep breath together.

ENGAGE

• Be specific when you give me a chore. Like: “Put your blocks into the box” instead of “Can you clean up?”
• Show me what to do by doing a similar chore right next to me.

ENCOURAGE

• My “help” won’t always be that helpful, but remember that I’m learning how to do chores and have a helpful attitude. The inconvenience now will be worth it later on.
• Praise my efforts (even if I didn’t really help that much). Like: “Thank you so much for wiping the table dry. You’re such a helper!”

REFLECT

• How do I react when you praise me for being helpful?

Not Quite Ready

Ask me to help with simple tidying tasks like putting clothes in the hamper or putting trash in the trash can. (“Clean Up Helper”- Level 2)

Ready for More

Encourage me to put common things away every day (like: shoes, coat, favorite toys). Over time, see if I begin to put them away on my own.

As Your Child Masters This Skill

They will feel proud that they are a family helper and will know the basics of completing chores.

Time to Complete

15-30 minutes

Materials Needed

Household items