How to use a chore chart that actually works
Hang the chart where the day starts, like the fridge or the bedroom door, and check the boxes together at the same time every day. Young children love a sticker in each box; older kids can tick it off themselves. Agree on the reward before the week starts and write it on the chart, so there is nothing to negotiate on Saturday.
Keep the list short. Three to five chores a child can finish without help beat a long list that is never done, and you can always add one when the chart feels easy.
Chores by age
Ages 2–4
Put toys away, Brush teeth, Get dressed, Clothes in the hamper, Help feed the pet, Water the plants.
Ages 5–7
Make my bed, Brush teeth, Tidy my room, Set the table, Feed the pet, Put away laundry, Read for 20 minutes.
Ages 8–11
Make my bed, Clean my room, Load the dishwasher, Take out the trash, Homework, Practice instrument, Help with dinner.
Ages 12+
Do my laundry, Clean the bathroom, Empty the dishwasher, Walk the dog, Homework, Cook one dinner, Vacuum.
More free printables
- Potty training chart · Sat on the potty, went in the potty, washed hands: a sticker for each.
- Behavior chart · A few clear goals, a box for every day and a reward to work towards.
- Reward & sticker chart · Everyday goals, a sticker box for each day and a reward at the end.
Questions
Is the chore chart really free?
Yes. Make as many charts as you like and download the PDF without an account or an email address.
How do I print the chore chart?
Open the PDF and print it at 100% (actual size) on US Letter or A4, whichever you chose. Card stock lasts longer if the chart hangs on the fridge all week.
What chores can a 4-year-old do?
Short, concrete jobs they can finish alone: put toys away, put clothes in the hamper, help feed the pet, water plants and brush teeth. Pick the “Ages 2–4” suggestions and edit them to fit.
How many chores should be on a chart?
Three to five for young children and up to seven or eight for older kids. A chart the child can actually finish works better than a long list, so start small and add one when the chart feels easy.
Can I make charts for several children?
Yes. Add up to four names and we email you one PDF with a page for each child, free. A chart for one child downloads straight away.
Can I make a chore chart with pictures?
Yes. Leave “Pictures beside each line” on and every chore gets a simple picture, like a bed for “make my bed” or a book for reading, so children who can't read yet know what each row means.
Should chores be rewarded?
Many families use a small weekly reward for a full row of stickers or a set number of stars, and keep everyday jobs like tidying up as part of family life. Write the reward on the chart so everyone knows the deal.