kitchen cleaning with kids

At what age can a child set and clear the table? When can a kid take out the garbage?

Kitchen cleaning chores don't top anyone's house cleaning list - but it sure beats cleaning the bathroom hands-down.

You could always give your kids the option of scrubbing the toilet if they're not in the mood to rinse dishes and put them in the dishwasher.

This guide to kitchen cleaning with kids by age will help keep expectations realistic - and get the kitchen clean 

Kitchen Cleaning Chores for Ages 2 and Under:

• Close cabinet doors and drawers

• Turn on the dishwasher

• Help set the table

Chores for Kids Ages 3 to 5:

• Previous chores, plus:

• Place dirty dishes on the kitchen counter

• Sponge down the play table

• Help unload the dishwasher

Chores for Kids Ages 6 to 9:

• Previous chores, plus:

• Help make breakfast

• Do some simple cooking tasks such as rinsing vegetables

• Set and clear the table

• Put dishes into the dishwasher

• Wipe up spills

• Wipe kitchen table, chairs, high chair, counters, and cooktop or range

• Wipe down the interior of the microwave

• Sweep or vacuum kitchen floor and damp-mop any spills

• Help put away groceries

• Empty and wipe wastebaskets clean, using disinfecting wipes

Chores for Kids Ages 10 to 13:

• Previous chores, plus:

• Pour beverages for meals
  

• Help hand-wash dishes

• Make lunch for school

• Unload the dishwasher

• Disinfect kitchen countertops

• Do a surface cleaning of the fridge (this would include a lesson reading package expiration dates)

Chores for Teens Ages 14 to 17:

• Previous chores, plus:

• Prepare meals

• Clean and disinfect sink

• Clean coffeemaker thoroughly

• Organize pantry

Final Tips for Kitchen Cleaning with Kids

In addition to cleaning, there are other housekeeping chores in the kitchen. For those, such as setting and clearing the table, eliminate the "I did it last time" excuse by assigning permanent rotations that are easy to remember, such as odd or even days of the month assigned to each child.

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