It makes him responsible for something which gives him pride and boosts self-esteem.

But many parents are confused about when a child is ready for each task. Your child should feel a sense of challenge. But she should not be given more than she can handle.

Here’s a guide to giving your children appropriate tasks:

• Between ages four and five, children can bring in the mail or the paper as long as they don’t have to cross the street. They are still too young to be left alone in the tub, but they can wash themselves.
• Between ages five and six, children can be responsible for picking up their rooms. They can put away toys and clothes, and make their beds. They can usually tie their own shoes. In the kitchen, they can make most of their own sandwiches of cheese or peanut butter and jelly. They may need you to cut the bread.

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