Summer is in full swing, and your kids are already bored. Do you need a way to get them outside or just out of your hair? Giving them a job/chore outside is a great way to keep them entertained. Not only will it get them outside and active, but it also helps you with the chores. Here are some recommendations for all age groups!   

Toddlers/ Young Kids (2-5 years old)   

• Weed the garden/ flowerbeds  
• Picking up sticks, toys and any unwanted items in the yard   
• Plant a fast-growing plant (chia pets, sunflowers/flowers, snap peas, radishes, carrots, etc.)   
• Have them help with planting and adding soil   
• Water plants

6-10 years old   

• In addition to the above:   
• Plant a Herb Garden   
• Help transplant shrubs, gardens, etc    
• Build raised garden beds   
• Move lawn furniture and larger toys 
• Hoe the garden  
• Set up sprinklers    

10 – 18 years old   

• In Addition to above:  
• Rank and bag leaves  
• Blow off driveway/ sidewalk/ carport 
• Lay mulch  
• Create a compost bin  
• Use lawnmower and weed eater (13+)  
• Pruning bushes and trees   

These are just a few ideas to get you started. Kids are usually not fans of doing chores, so don’t tell them it is one! Tell them it is a job and they give paid for it (add it to their allowance). Or make it a competition between kids! See how fast they can pick up all their toys, who can rake the biggest pile of leaves, etc. You can also make it a learning experience for them through gardening and machine maintenance (make sure you do it safely, and that it is appropriate for their age). Now we know there are many more ideas out there, so leave us a comment below on how you get your kids to do yard work?