Should Kids Have Chores? Science Says Yes and Here’s Why

Giving children chores might feel like an old-fashioned parenting idea, but modern science has robustly backed this time-honored practice. Far from being merely about keeping a tidy home or teaching kids to ‘pull their weight,’ chores contribute profoundly to a child’s cognitive, emotional, and social development.

In this article, we’ll dive into the science behind why chores matter, explore their long-term benefits, provide real-world examples and data, and offer insights for parents aiming to foster thriving kids.

Introduction: Beyond Housework — The Hidden Power of Chores

If you ask many parents, chores are often a battleground: kids resist, parents insist. But what if these daily tasks are not just necessary hassles but essential building blocks for children’s futures?

Research reveals that regular chores promote critical life skills that aren’t typically taught in schools. These include responsibility, time management, teamwork, self-discipline, and even foundational executive functions related to success in education and well-being. In short, chores help kids learn how to succeed in life.

The Science Behind Chores: Developmental Benefits Explained

1. Building Responsibility and Self-Discipline

A landmark study published in 2020 in the Journal of Child Development followed over a thousand American children into adulthood. It showed that children assigned regular chores by age 10 were more likely to exhibit responsibility and self-discipline later in life, factors closely tied to career and relationship success.

Dr. Marty Rossmann, a family psychologist, emphasized in an interview with Psychology Today that chores, done consistently, teach children about duty and consequences. They learn that their actions matter — a core lesson of responsibility.

2. Enhancing Executive Function and Time Management

Chores develop executive functions — a group of cognitive skills including working memory, flexible thinking, and self-control.

Researchers at the University of London documented that kids managing daily or weekly chores develop better problem-solving skills. They have to plan how and when to do tasks amidst other obligations, fostering early time management competencies.

3. Promoting Emotional Health and Self-Esteem

Chores enhance a child’s self-worth. Successfully completing tasks boosts confidence and a sense of accomplishment. Psychologist Dr. Laura Kastner notes that chores give children measurable achievement goals, counteracting feelings of helplessness or passivity.

Studies also link household participation to better mental health — kids who contribute feel more integrated into family life and gain a sense of belonging and purpose.

4. Preparing for Adulthood and Future Success

A 2018 Longitudinal Study by the Colorado State University found that teens who regularly did chores were 30% more likely to be successful financially by their mid-20s, compared to peers whose parents did everything for them.

These youth reportedly excelled in managing budgets, holding consistent jobs, and demonstrated better social responsibility.

Real-World Examples: How Chores Translate to Life Skills

Case Study 1: Chile’s National Chore Program

Chile implemented a government-backed initiative encouraging parents to assign chores to children. After just two years, schools reported improved punctuality, discipline, and academic engagement. This program provides a macro-level example of how small household responsibilities foster better societal outcomes.

Case Study 2: The Montessori Educational Approach

Montessori educators integrate practical life skills like cleaning, gardening, and food preparation into daily routines. Scientific studies validate Montessori children as having superior executive functioning skills, partially credited to their involvement in meaningful tasks.

Practical Tips for Parents: Implementing Effective Chores

Start Age-Appropriately

• Toddlers: Simple tasks like putting toys away or sorting laundry.
• Ages 5-7: Setting the table, feeding pets.
• Ages 8-12: Vacuuming, washing dishes.
• Teens: Cooking meals, managing personal schedules.

Consistency and Routine

Regular chores embedded in routines foster habits that last.

Encourage Autonomy

Allow kids to complete tasks with minimal supervision to build confidence and problem-solving.

Recognize Effort, Not Just Outcome

Praise persistence and willingness rather than perfection to motivate continued participation.

Addressing Common Objections

“Won’t Chores Stress Kids Out?”

While overscheduling is harmful, balanced chores teach coping skills. The key is age-appropriate expectations.

“Shouldn’t Kids Be Kids Instead of Working?”

Chores don’t equate to labor; instead, they’re an integral part of growing up with responsibilities, which enhances, not detracts from, childhood.

“Does Paying Kids for Chores Help?”

Experts suggest chores tied to family roles should be mandatory, not paid. Bonuses can be set for additional tasks but chores primarily remain a shared family duty.

Conclusion: A Small Step with Big Impact

Science is unequivocal: chores are more than just household tasks. They are fundamental exercises in character-building, responsibility, and cognitive development. Engaging children in chores sets them on a path toward adulthood with stronger skills, better mental health, and higher chances of success.

For parents looking to enrich their child’s growth pragmatically, integrating regular chores is a scientifically supported, natural path with lifelong rewards.

So, rather than resist those requests to “clean your room” or “set the table,” embrace them. From small tasks grow mighty adults.

References:

• Rossmann, M. (2018). Raising Emotionally Healthy Children. Psychology Today.
• Hartshorne, T.R. (2020). Chores, Character, and Career Outcomes. Journal of Child Development.
• University of London (2019). Chores and Executive Function.
• Colorado State University (2018). Longitudinal Study on Teen Chore Impact.
• Montessori Society. (2021). Practical Life and Child Development.