car chores for kids by age

Car chores for kids are a natural. They do help muck up the family ride, after all.

So why shouldn't they help clean it - as long as the chores are age appropriate?

Getting kids to help with cleaning isn't easy, especially in the beginning. Besides, how much help can you realistically expect from a child?

The answer depends on the child's age. Below I've listed examples of the chores that kids can generally do by certain ages.

Once a child reaches a certain skill or age level, he can generally do the car chores for kids in his age group and those for the age groups below.

Car Chores for Kids Ages 2 and Under:

Kids can help with the exterior and interior cleaning of the family car and other age-appropriate chores.

• Take the road toys he brought with him inside the house.

Chores for Kids Ages 3 to 5:

The previous chore, plus:

• Take his backpack inside.

Chores for Kids Ages 6 to 9:

The previous chores, plus:

• Pick up trash in the car and empty the bag

• Vacuum out the car, with help depending on the machine's height and weight

• Help wash the car

• Wipe up spills.

Chores for Kids Ages 10 to 13:

The previous chores, plus:

• Wipe off the car's dashboard and upholstery

• Electronics patrol. Organize and return to cases all entertainment that’s been separated from its cover: CDs, DVDs, etc.
  

• Detail/dress tires.
  

Chores for Kids Ages 14 to 17:

The previous chores, plus:

• Wash the car

• Wash the car's undercarriage each spring