Just thinking about chores can make us want to groan but doing chores can be beneficial for our physical and mental health. Doing chores is one way to incorporate more physical activity into the day. Having a clean and organized space can also decrease stress. Additionally, different chores can work on different cognitive skill development.
Chores can help individuals develop responsibility and independence. They also provide opportunities to practice developmental skills such as strength and coordination, motor planning, visual perception, organization, and following instructions. Chores are a great way to naturally provide proprioceptive input and help regulate our sensory systems, which can improve attention and behavior. When done well, chores also help support a strong self-esteem.
Sample chores that incorporate physical activity and work on strength and coordination:
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Putting away dishes
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Wiping down counters and tables
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Vacuuming or sweeping floors
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Collecting and/or taking out the trash/recycling
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Shoveling snow or raking leaves
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Walking the family dog
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Crushing cans for recycling
Samples chores that may reduce stress:
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Cleaning room
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Making bed
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Watering plants or flowers
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Sorting items like toys, books, CDs/DVDs, silverware, or laundry
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Walking or playing with the family pet
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Shredding papers
Sample chores that address cognition:
If you think your loved one with Down syndrome may have difficulty adding chores to their routine, consider incorporating visual supports to make the transition easier. This Chore Chart is one example.
Another resource is Life Skills At Home .png "opens in new window")
. It is a YouTube playlist with videos on a variety of activities such as loading and unloading the dishwasher, taking out the trash, folding and sorting laundry, and many others. The videos provide strategies that families and caregivers can use to help a person with Down syndrome learn how to do the activities.