# What chores can autistic kids do, and how do I teach them?

> Age-by-age chore ideas, picture steps, and building independence through small, real jobs.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/chores-for-autistic-kids
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-28

**Short answer:** Chores build independence and confidence. Choose jobs that fit your child's age and interests (putting toys in a bin at 2, feeding a pet at 5, sorting laundry at 8), break each one into picture steps, teach one step at a time, and praise effort. A chore chart or token board shows progress. Many autistic children enjoy jobs with a clear finish, like matching socks.

**Key takeaways**
- Chores build **independence and confidence**.
- Pick jobs that fit your child's **age and interests**.
- Break each job into **picture steps**.
- Jobs with a **clear finish** work well.

## Which chores fit each age?

| Age | Ideas |
| --- | --- |
| 2 to 3 | Toys in a bin, shoes by the door, napkins on the table |
| 4 to 6 | Feed a pet, match socks, wipe the table, water plants |
| 7 to 9 | Sort laundry, set the table, unload cutlery, make the bed |
| 10 to 12 | Fold laundry, simple cooking, take out recycling |

## How do I teach a chore?

1. **Break it into steps** with pictures (task analysis).[1]
2. **Show the steps** where the job happens.[2]
3. **Do it together** first.
4. **Step back** a little each time.
5. **Praise effort**, not perfection.

**Try:**
- Jobs linked to your child's interests
- The same time each day
- A chart to show progress

**Skip:**
- Redoing your child's work in front of them
- Too many chores at once

**Real jobs matter.** Chores like feeding a pet show your child that they're a valued part of the family.

Free printable: [Free printable: 5-star token chart](https://theautismkit.com/printables/token-chart.pdf)

## What can I try this week?

- [ ] Pick one chore that fits your child
- [ ] Make picture steps for it
- [ ] Do it together every day

## Common questions

### Should I pay my child for chores?

Some families use tokens or small rewards, especially at first. Others treat chores as part of family life. Both work.

### My child does chores differently from me. Should I fix it?

Only if it matters. Doing it their way still builds independence.

### What if my child refuses?

Make the job smaller, do it together, and use first-then with something they like.

## Sources

1. National Clearinghouse on Autism Evidence and Practice: Research and resources (task analysis). https://ncaep.fpg.unc.edu/research-and-resources/
2. AFIRM (UNC Frank Porter Graham): Visual supports evidence-based practice brief. https://afirm.fpg.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/Visual-Supports-Brief-Packet.pdf

General guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Talk with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist about your child's care.