Make Chores a Learning Game for Your Toddler or Preschooler
1.Laundry- Help your child to identify different colors and sort clothes by light and dark colors. Hold up different articles of clothing and ask your child to name them. For example, hold up a pair of pants and ask your child “What is this?” Ask your child to help you measure the amount of detergent to pour into the washing machine. Teach your child about patience and time by informing your child that when the washing machine is done, you will then load the clothes into the dryer.
2.Grocery Shopping- Write your grocery list together. Make sure you shop at a time when your child is not hungry or tired. At the grocery store, place your child in the shopping cart and begin shopping. Ask your child to name each item that you are placing in the cart. Point out shapes of cartons and cans and the different colors on them. Show your child the variety of fruits and vegetables. When you get home, ask your child where he or she thinks each item should go. For example, ask your child where you should place the eggs. If your child doesn’t know show your child and explain why the eggs go into the refrigerator. Have your child put away items that are in low cabinets.
3.Dusting- Unless your child is allergic to dust particles, give your child a small duster and ask him or her to help you dust different pieces of furniture around the house. Ask your child questions about each room in the house that you are dusting. Point out different shapes, colors and textures.
4.Setting the Table- Have your child to help you set your table for dinner. Use paper plates and plastic utensils if you have them available. Tell your child the number of plates and utensils that you need on the table. Ask your child questions about what each item is used for.
5.Cooking- Make a simple dish for dinner and ask your child to help you. Have your child gather and measure and stir each ingredient. Count the number of ingredients. For example, tell your child “We need to add two eggs.” Ask your child if he or she thinks it will be sweet, salty or bitter. Talk with your child about the different colors, textures, size and weight of each ingredient. Show your child how each ingredient play a part in making the dish taste good. When it’s time to clean up, have your child help you wipe the counters.
Make sure you choose a time to do the chores when your child isn’t hungry, tired or agitated. If at any time, your child doesn’t feel like continuing, let your child do something else and complete the chore alone. Most importantly, have fun!
