Kids Chore List Template Ideas to Try Today

Why use a Kids Chore List Template?

I’m a big fan of kids doing chores. Not just because it is taking things off my to-do list (let’s be realistic here – it’s really adding things to my to-do list!), but rather for the valuable life lessons and work ethic it is teaching my kiddos.

However, I know just telling my kids what I want them to do, and hoping they remember is about as likely to happen as an elephant in a pink tutu doing ballet in my living room. If I can’t keep up with my to-do list, why on earth do I expect my kids to be able to? Kids need visual cues, reminders, and help to stay on task and get things done. (And, honestly, so do I!)

A kid’s chore list template is an awesome way to keep everyone on track and motivated. There is something so satisfying about marking a task complete, and the visual clues of a chore chart are awesome for readers and nonreaders alike.

It takes some training and practice for the whole family, but I’ve been pleasantly surprised with how well a kids chore list template keeps things running around here. My kids love completing the tasks set out for them on the chore chart, and I love knowing that my boys are learning that helping around the house is for everyone!

How to Start With a Chore Chart

A kids chore list template isn’t a miracle worker all by itself. It will take some patience, training, and explanation for everyone to get things started on the right foot. Investing the time at the beginning will pay off in big ways as your kids learn how to help around the house.

One of the easiest ways to introduce the concept of a chore list template is to start with something they enjoy doing. Washing dishes and feeding the dog are two big favorites around here.

After introducing the concept that “families help each other, so we will all help with taking care of the house,” it’s important to clearly explain their role as helper, and what is expected of them.

My kids love to help. It gives them a sense of pride and ownership of their place in the family. We will tell them what job they will have as a helper, walk through how to do the job with them, and talk about how we do our very best work with a happy heart because that is one way we can love and serve God and each other.

Start Small

One or two tasks, as they are getting the hang of the idea, are more than sufficient to establish a pattern of consistency. Giving too many chores from the beginning will just lead to overwhelm and frustration.

Praise, Praise, Praise

We give out lots of praise for working hard to help, trying their best, and working with a happy heart. The goal isn’t to shorten your to-do list, but rather to build a strong foundation of hard work and service in our kids – I try to never “re-do” the work they’ve done or criticize, but only focus on the positive. They are learning – and expecting perfection is a surefire way to deflate them and their desire to help.

Be the Example

Another important step in the learning process is to model for your kids the same behavior that you expect from them. I’ve caught myself grumbling about the work before me, while expecting my kids to work with happy hearts, and had to apologize. There’s lots of grace here – none of us are perfect – and these times are also excellent learning opportunities for our little ones.

Ready for your own kid’s chore list template?

There’s no one way to make a kids chore list template. The beauty of making your own is being able to find what works for you and your family. For us, I know the more elaborate, the less likely it is to succeed. With two fun-loving boys, function over frills is the way to make it happen.

That said, I realize our way is not the only way. I’ve seen several awesome chore list templates for kids, and maybe one of these would work fabulously for you and your crew.

Follow the links below the photos for more detailed instructions from these talented (and creative!) bloggers!

Pictures that flip closed to “Done” (what we use!)