According To The Experts, 8-Year-Olds Should Be Doing Their Own Laundry

Parents walk a fine line when it comes to giving children more responsibility. On the one hand, it’s our job to prepare our kids for life in the best ways possible. On the other hand, you want to let kids be kids and enjoy their freedom while they can.

“Chores” sounds like such a negative word, when in reality, they should be seen as tasks or responsibilities. Child development expert Dr. Deborah Gilboa also says that weekly and daily tasks give kids the independence that they crave while instilling important life skills.

Your Child Should Be Doing Their Own Laundry By The Time They’re 8

Despite our kid’s busy schedules, Dr. Gilboa says that having regular chores is the best way for kids to be “problem solvers of good character.” One of those major chore milestones is doing their own laundry.

kids folding laundry together at kitchen table
Photo Credit: @kylie.helmer/Instagram
Photo Credit: @kylie.helmer/Instagram

By age 8, a child should have enough skills and foresight to know when, and how, to do their own laundry.