Engaging toddlers in household chores is a fantastic opportunity for learning and bonding. From vacuuming to setting the table, these everyday tasks that can be tedious for adults become exciting and fun in the eyes of small children.
Involving toddlers in housework, or “care of the environment”, is key in Montessori education, and offers several benefits:
As a Montessori guide, I've witnessed the enthusiasm and capability of toddlers when given age-appropriate housekeeping tasks. As with other practical life areas, the key lies in offering appropriate tools, setting realistic expectations, and introducing chores gradually.
This mini guide aims to inspire and equip you with practical strategies and resources to involve your toddler in housework, from collaboration to independence!
Skip to:
Toddlers are not ready to take on chores in the way older children or adults do. This period isn’t about completing tasks perfectly or efficiently; it’s a time for them to learn the foundational skills, explore tasks sensorially, and develop a sense of contribution and capability.
Toddlers are naturally eager to participate in household tasks—they see us working and want to join in. Often, we might hold them back because their efforts aren’t efficient, the result isn’t perfect, or it takes extra time to guide them. However, if we miss this crucial window of opportunity, they may lose interest as they grow older, and what was once enthusiasm becomes resistance.
Start by observing your child. Notice their interests and readiness for specific activities. Are they drawn to wiping spills, carrying items, or sweeping? Begin with tasks they show interest in and build from there. At first, they’ll need a lot of involvement and guidance from you. Over time, as their skills and confidence grow, you can gradually step back, giving them more independence. Celebrate their efforts, no matter how small, and let them feel the pride of being part of the family’s work.
It’s essential to prepare an environment that sets them up for success. Creating a space where they can access the tools and materials they need allows for more independence and encourages participation.
Consider their need for access to water—a critical element in many cleaning tasks. This might mean making the kitchen tap accessible with a faucet extender, providing a step stool, or having a pre-filled a dispenser for filling small pitchers and washing hands or tools.
Keeping cleaning tools and products organized and within easy reach ensures they know where to find them and where to return them, fostering a sense of order. Look for child-safe cleaning solutions, or make your own by diluting soap, vinegar or other safe products in water.
The tools you provide should be child-sized and functional, enabling them to use them effectively and safely. Items like a small broom, dustpan, cloths, or a spray bottle that they can squeeze are excellent starting points. See the list below for some suggestions, with product links: