12 Simple DIY Chore Chart Ideas That Will Work for Your Family
Make chores a little bit less of a, well, chore.
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Going back to school means easing into a new routine, and if you're worried about getting your kids organized and making sure they stay on top of their chores and homework this year, you can get them started on new habits with these genius DIY chore chart ideas. Whether in the form of a simple printable sheet, a magnetic chore board, or any other creative homemade option that works for your family, chore charts are a great way to teach your kids problem solving and money management skills — not to mention get your children to actually do chores without nagging.
Of course, you'll also have to come up with some good age-appropriate responsibilities to put on your chore chart. Parenting experts say kids as young as 18 months can handle basic weekly chores, and it's a great age to start nurturing their budding independence. To get you started, here are some chore chart ideas by age group, from toddlers to teens:
Chore Chart Ideas for Kids Under 6
- Pick up toys
- Tidy room
- Help adult with sweeping
- Brush teeth
- Comb hair
- Dusting
Chore Chart Ideas for Kids 7-12
- Wash and put away laundry
- Feed pets
- Vacuum floors
- Make lunch
- Carry out trash
- Put away dishes
Chore Chart Ideas for Kids 13+
- Clean bathroom
- Help with yard work
- Clean baseboards
- Mop kitchen floor
- Wash the car
- Clean out fridge
Now that you're armed with what should be on a chore chart, check out these simple chore chart ideas that you can easily make at home:
Free Printable Daily Chore Chart
Make it easy to switch up their tasks from week to week with this colorful (and free!) printable chore chart for kids.
Magnetic Cookie Sheet Chore Chart
Turn a plain old cookie sheet into a magnetic chore chart with just a few supplies. As kids complete tasks, move the magnet from "To Do" to "Done" and track their progress towards a specific reward at the bottom.
Extra Cash Chore Chart
In addition to the daily chores they do for free (making their bed, putting away their toys, etc.), this simple homemade chore chart will help incentivize kids to help out with bigger jobs around the house. Not having to mow the lawn yourself is totally worth $5, isn't it?
"Mom, I Need Money" Chore Chart
This chore chart is the same idea as the one above, but even cuter thanks to a frame and colorful envelopes.
Chalkboard Chore Charts
Transform a plain old clipboard into a personalized chore chart with some chalkboard paint.
Morning Motivation Chore Chart
This checklist for morning and evening routines is magnetic so it can be reused day after day.
Chore Sticks
All you need is some popsicle sticks and washi tape to create this easy system to help motivate your kids to complete their chores.
Race Car Magnetic Chore Chart
If your kids are obsessed with toy cars, they'll love this fun magnetic chore chart that will keep track of their daily tasks.
DIY Mason Jar Chore Chart
Not only will this chore chart hold your kids accountable for helping out around the house, but it will also look amazing with the rest of your rustic chic decor.
Spinning Chore Wheel
Turn chores into a game-show like experience with this printable lazy Susan-style wheel o' chores.
DIY Clothespin Chore Chart
Hang this easy DIY chore chart on your child's bedroom door so that as they completes tasks, they can easily keep track of what they have left to do everyday.
Printable Tic-Tac-Toe Chore Chart
This tic-tac-to do list is so fun, you'll want to use it to motivate yourself to finish up your own chores. When you (or your kids) check off three in a row, treat yourselves to a fun reward.
Lyndsey Matthews is the Destination News Editor for AFAR; previously she was a Lifestyle Editor across all of Hearst Digital Media's brands, and a digital editor at Martha Stewart Weddings and Travel + Leisure.
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