Chores for 12 year olds: Keep things tidy
Parenting Issues by Levelty
At the age of 12, children experience significant developmental changes that impact their physical, emotional, and cognitive growth. This article explores the benefits of chores for 12 year olds, supported by studies on child development. It also provides a practical list of age-appropriate tasks, helping parents encourage independence while maintaining a tidy home.
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February 18, 2025
Why chores matter at this age
At the age of 12, children go through significant physical and psychological changes. They start experiencing rapid growth, especially girls, which can lead to feelings of awkwardness. Logical thinking becomes more developed, allowing them to understand cause-and-effect relationships better. However, hormonal changes can also result in mood swings and irritability.
Research shows that children who regularly participate in household chores develop a stronger sense of responsibility and a better work ethic. A study published in the Journal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics found that children given age-appropriate chores displayed greater self-discipline and problem-solving skills compared to those who were not assigned tasks. Another study by the University of Minnesota revealed that children who started doing chores at an early age were more likely to become successful, independent adults. Additionally, research suggests that children involved in household responsibilities tend to be more cooperative and empathetic toward others.
Chores for 12 year olds
At this age, children are capable of handling more complex tasks that contribute to maintaining a clean and organized home. Here are some chores suitable for 12 year olds:
Tidying their room
Making the bed, organizing clothes, and keeping personal space neat
Helping with laundry
Sorting, folding, and putting away clean clothes
Dishwashing
Washing dishes by hand or loading and unloading the dishwasher
Sweeping and vacuuming
Keeping floors clean in common areas and their bedroom
Taking out the trash
Emptying bins and replacing trash bags
Preparing simple meals
Making sandwiches, breakfast, or light snacks
Caring for pets
Feeding, walking, and cleaning up after pets
The Levelty App helps find age-appropriate chores and teaches your child responsibility, contributing to the family, and making chores fun!
Building responsibility through chores
Including 12 year olds in household responsibilities not only helps keep the home tidy but also plays an essential role in their personal growth. Chores for 12 year olds encourage responsibility, independence, and self-confidence. Over time, these habits prepare them for future responsibilities and teach them valuable life skills.