The 10 Minute chore list is a useful tool for several purposes:
- The house is kinda messy, and we are just flat out busy. But if everyone can do one quick 10-minute chore, everything starts to feel a little better.
- I am having a hard time getting motivated, so I will do several 10-minute chores, using a timer. Once I hit ten minutes, I switch activities, even if I am not finished with the first.
- A child is getting into trouble or causing strife for others because he has a little too much time on his hands.
- Chores can be a good consequence for bad behavior.
- We have lots of “little” helpers who can help well in smaller spurts of energy
- You just had a new baby and a visitor comes by and asks what they can do to help. Show them the ten minute list and highlight the top priorities, let them choose.
These are the ways I use this list, and if you can think of others, let me know!
Here’s the list:
| Set the table | Memorize a scripture passage from Polished cornerstones. | Organize curriculum in dining room | ||
| Put away school books | Clean up back deck Including table tops and clutter | Update your personal calendar comparing it to the family calendar | ||
| Write a letter or note to Grandma or Granddad | Fold Laundry | Make a pitcher of tea (if needed) | ||
| Read a book to a sibling | Vacuum stairs | Wipe off a shelf in the refrigerator. | ||
| Pull out couch cushions and clean under them. | Clean front porch | Update the calendar | ||
| Write an encouraging note to a friend and mail it. | Clean clutter off steps | Look around and see what needs to be done and do it. | ||
| Clean out email box. | Gather up all library books: Check library website for list and renew any late or soon to be late item. | |||
| Straighten one kitchen drawer or shelf | Play a game with a sibling | Clean out the van | ||
| Replace washcloths and towels in kitchen. | Write a thank you note for a kind deed done to you. | Tidy front hall | ||
| Straighten up and sharpen pencils in turntable. Replace crayons and pens and pencils as needed. | File school paperwork | Tidy living room |
| Clean Windows on main level | Organize videos and book shelves | Bring trashcans back from the street | ||
| Quick clean powder room
|
Empty garbage and wipe outside of trashcan | Mop kitchen floor | ||
| Sweep Kitchen Floor | Switch laundry and fold and put away what is in the dryer | Quick clean of girls’ bathroom | ||
| Unload and reload dishwasher | Dust living room | Quick clean of master bathroom | ||
| Vacuum Main floor | Dust Dining room | Straighten towels in master closet | ||
| Vacuum Upstairs (Bedrooms, hall and bathrooms) | Straighten basement | Clean basement windows | ||
| Clean up around the washer and dryer area | Dust and Vacuum basement | File paperwork | ||
| Wipe down counters and cabinet fronts | Quick clean basement bathroom | Input bills and receipts | ||
| Organize shoe closet | Pick up blocks and toys in basement | Water plants | ||
| Clean out basement closet | Empty all trash cans in the house | Clean off front porch |
