Earning an allowance (or pocket money, as it’s called in the UK) can be a fun way to save up for something special and learn new skills along the way!
Doing chores around the house is one of the easiest ways for kids to earn a bit of extra cash. Whether you’re saving up for a new toy, a game, or just some spending money, helping out at home is a great way to reach your goals!
For parents, it’s a simple way to teach kids about responsibility, teamwork, and the value of money. For kids, it’s a chance to feel proud of your hard work and enjoy the rewards!
In this post, you’ll find lots of ideas for chores kids can do to earn an allowance, with suggestions for every age group.
Plus, I have a free printable chore chart to keep you on track!
Let’s get started!
Why chores are a great way to earn an allowance
Chores aren’t just about keeping the house tidy – they’re a great way to learn important life skills while earning extra cash.
Here’s why:
- Learn responsibility
Doing chores helps kids understand how to take care of their home and follow through on tasks. - Understand the value of money
Earning money for chores shows kids that effort leads to rewards, teaching the value of hard work. - Build independence
Taking on tasks helps kids feel capable and prepares them for bigger responsibilities later. - Be part of the team
Helping around the house shows kids that their efforts make a difference and encourages teamwork. - Learn real-life skills
Household tasks like cooking or cleaning are valuable skills that kids can use for life.
For parents, this system makes life easier while teaching kids lessons they’ll carry forever – it’s a win-win!
Age-appropriate chores for kids
Not all chores are suitable for every age group, but there’s plenty kids can do to help out at home, no matter how young or old they are!
Here’s a breakdown of age-appropriate chores that kids can take on, grouped by age to match their abilities.
Ages 4–6: Simple tasks for little helpers
At this age, kids are eager to help and can manage simple, low-effort tasks with a bit of guidance.
- Picking up toys and putting them in a toy box.
- Putting dirty clothes in the laundry basket.
- Helping set the table (e.g., napkins, cutlery).
- Watering plants with supervision.
- Dusting low surfaces with a cloth.
- Sorting socks or small items from laundry.
- Wiping down tables.
- Bringing small items to another room (e.g., putting shoes by the door).
- Matching lids to plastic containers.
- Helping with pet care (e.g., filling a water bowl).
Parent tip: Use fun tools like colourful baskets or small watering cans to make chores feel like a game!
Ages 7–9: Medium-effort tasks
Kids in this group are ready for more responsibility and can handle tasks that require a little more focus.
- Feeding and giving water to pets.
- Sweeping floors or using a small vacuum.
- Emptying smaller rubbish bins into the main bin.
- Folding laundry or pairing socks.
- Helping unload groceries and putting them away.
- Making their own bed neatly.
- Organising their toys or books on shelves.
- Wiping down kitchen counters or sinks.
- Carrying light bags of groceries.
- Helping pack lunchboxes or snacks for school.
Parent tip: Praise their effort to keep them motivated – even small tasks deserve recognition!
Ages 10–12: Independent chores
Preteens are capable of managing more challenging chores without constant supervision.
- Loading and unloading the dishwasher.
- Taking out the rubbish.
- Cleaning their own room (dusting, vacuuming, and tidying up).
- Raking leaves or pulling weeds in the garden.
- Preparing simple snacks or helping with basic cooking.
- Cleaning windows (lower ones they can safely reach).
- Sweeping the driveway or patio.
- Organising a shared space like the living room.
- Sorting recycling into the correct bins.
- Walking the dog (if appropriate for their strength).
Parent tip: Let them choose a task from a list to give them a sense of control.
Ages 13+: Advanced chores
There are lots more ways for teenagers to earn money. Teens can take on more complex responsibilities, often similar to what adults handle around the house.
- Mowing the lawn.
- Babysitting younger siblings (if appropriate).
- Washing the car.
- Cooking meals (with some guidance if needed).
- Running errands or grocery shopping (with supervision).
- Cleaning the bathroom, including scrubbing sinks and tubs.
- Helping with laundry from start to finish (washing, drying, folding).
- Vacuuming and mopping larger spaces.
- Setting up and clearing away for family meals.
- Helping with home organisation projects (e.g., seasonal wardrobe swaps).
Parent tip: Show them how their effort makes a big difference and discuss how these skills will benefit them in the future.
By matching chores to your child’s age and ability, you can make sure tasks are both manageable and rewarding. Plus, as kids grow, their confidence and skills will grow too!
How to assign chores and set payment
Setting up a fair and effective system for chores and allowances is key to making everything run smoothly. Here’s how to get started:
1. Match chores to age and ability
Not all tasks are suitable for every child, so assign chores that match their age and skill level. This makes sure they feel confident and capable while still being challenged.
For example, younger kids can pick up toys, while teens can handle more complex tasks like cooking or washing the car.
2. Decide on a payment system
Work out how much allowance you’ll offer and how it will be earned. This will be unique to your family, but here are some ideas:
- Pay per task: Each completed chore earns a specific amount, like £0.50 or $1.
- Pay a weekly allowance: Offer a set amount if all chores are completed on time.
- Combine both: A small weekly allowance with bonuses for extra tasks.
- Treats: Not all families use money as a motivator. If you prefer, you can reward kids with extra screen time, a special treat, or choosing a family activity instead.
Tip: Let kids know the value of each task upfront so they can plan and feel motivated.
3. Use a chore chart
A chore chart is a simple way to track progress. Kids can tick off tasks as they’re completed, and parents can see who’s done what at a glance. This keeps things organised and makes the system clear for everyone.
Download my free chore chart below!
4. Be consistent
Stick to the plan and follow through with payments or rewards. If kids don’t complete their chores, be firm but fair about the consequences (e.g., no allowance for missed tasks). Consistency helps kids understand expectations, and keeps the system working!
By assigning chores thoughtfully and setting up a simple payment system, you’ll create a structure that benefits both kids and parents.
Kids will feel empowered by their achievements, and parents can enjoy a little extra help around the house!
Free printable chores for money chart
Creating a chore chart can help you set clear expectations and make the system fair for everyone.
It can also show kids how much they’ll earn for each task, giving them a sense of responsibility, excitement and motivation.
Click the image below or click here to download my free printable kids’ chore chart. It’s a PDF file in three different colour ways. Choose your favourite or use a different page for each kid!
Feel free to print and use this chore chart as many times as you like, for personal use only. If you wish to use this resource on your own site, you must link back to this page.
A simple way to teach kids about work and money
Earning an allowance by doing chores is a great way for kids to learn important life skills while saving up for something special.
Whether you’re tackling small tasks like tidying toys or bigger jobs like mowing the lawn, every chore teaches valuable lessons about responsibility, independence, and the value of hard work.
For parents, it’s a win-win – kids help around the house, and they gain confidence and real-world skills in return. By assigning age-appropriate tasks, setting up a fair system, and making chores fun and rewarding, you’ll create a routine that benefits the whole family.
What chores do you think your kids will enjoy most? Share your ideas in the comments – and don’t forget to check out our free chore chart to help you get started!
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