Every generation, new philosophies emerge to help parents raise happy, well-adjusted children, from authoritative parenting in the 1960s to attachment parenting in the ’90s and the more recent gentle parenting, practiced by scores of millennial moms and dads.
But according to a significant body of research, there’s one aspect of child-rearing that truly sets kids up for success in adulthood: assigning them chores. That’s right — to reach the top of the ladder later in life, youngsters should start by scrubbing the dishes and taking out the trash.
The long-running Harvard Grant Study was launched in 1938 and is now on its second generation of participants. One of the groundbreaking research’s many takeaways is that professional success as an adult was associated with having done chores as a child — and the earlier those chores started, the more pronounced that link was.
Julie Lythcott-Haims, a former dean at Stanford University and author of How to Raise an Adult, offered Business Insider some insight on why that is.
“By making them do chores — taking out the garbage, doing their own laundry — they realize ‘I have to do the work of life in order to be part of life,’” she told the outlet. “‘It’s not just about me and what I need in this moment, but that I’m part of an ecosystem. I’m part of a family. I’m part of a workplace.’”
And there may be shorter-term benefits as well (other than a clean house). A 2019 study analyzed data from nearly 10,000 kids who entered kindergarten in 2011 and participated in one of the National Center for Education Statistics’ Early Childhood Longitudinal Studies. That first year, parents reported on how often their children performed chores. Then, in third grade, the kids themselves responded to questionnaires and took academic assessments.
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“The frequency of chores in kindergarten was positively associated with a child’s perception of social, academic, and life satisfaction competencies in the third grade, independent of sex, family income, and parent education,” the authors wrote. Additionally, they noted that performing any chores at all in kindergarten was associated with improved math scores three years later.
Another study, from the University of Minnesota, analyzed data from 84 young adults who were tracked over a 20-year period. It found that the best predictor of success in a person’s mid-20s was having participated in household tasks at the age of 3 or 4. In fact, if the kids hadn’t started taking on chores until the age of 15 or 16, the association was reversed. “The participation backfired and those subjects were less ‘successful,’” a UM news release notes.
If you’re wondering what tikes that young can actually do to help out, the answer is plenty. What’s most important is simply getting them involved, ensuring they feel like an essential part of that aforementioned ecosystem.
“When kids are really young, they want to help you rake leaves or prepare dinner,” Richard Bromfield, a psychologist at Harvard Medical School, explained to The Boston Globe. “Take those opportunities to let kids help. Those moments are infused with love and connection.”
Stories like this remind us of the power of human ingenuity and compassion. In a world where headlines are often dominated by negativity, it is refreshing to see developments that inspire hope and positive change. The story behind the secret to raising successful kids is all in the chore chart, research shows is one that resonates with people across different backgrounds and cultures, highlighting the universal desire for progress and connection.
Medical breakthroughs continue to reshape our understanding of human health. Researchers around the world are collaborating on innovative treatments and preventive measures that could improve the quality of life for millions of people. From advanced diagnostic tools to personalized medicine, the healthcare landscape is evolving at a remarkable pace. These developments are not just about extending lifespans but also about enhancing the daily well-being of individuals living with chronic conditions or facing new health challenges.
Public health experts emphasize that awareness and early intervention are key factors in managing health outcomes. Community health programs, educational initiatives, and accessible healthcare services play a vital role in ensuring that advancements reach the people who need them most. The integration of technology into healthcare delivery has also opened new possibilities for remote monitoring, telemedicine consultations, and data-driven treatment plans that can be tailored to individual needs.
Scientific discovery has always been driven by curiosity and the desire to understand the world around us. Modern research tools and international collaboration have accelerated the pace of discoveries, leading to breakthroughs that would have been unimaginable just a few decades ago. From the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of outer space, scientists are uncovering secrets that reshape our understanding of the universe and our place within it.
The importance of funding scientific research cannot be overstated. Government grants, private foundations, and university programs all contribute to creating an ecosystem where innovative ideas can be tested and validated. Public engagement with science through museums, documentaries, and educational outreach programs helps build a society that values evidence-based thinking and supports the continued pursuit of knowledge for the benefit of future generations.
Wildlife conservation efforts have gained significant momentum in recent years as more people recognize the importance of protecting biodiversity. From habitat restoration projects to breeding programs for endangered species, conservationists are working tirelessly to ensure that future generations can experience the rich diversity of animal life on our planet. The connection between healthy ecosystems and human well-being has become increasingly clear, driving both policy changes and grassroots action around the world.
Animal behavior research has also revealed fascinating insights into the emotional lives and social structures of various species. Studies have shown that many animals form deep bonds, exhibit empathy, and demonstrate problem-solving abilities that challenge our assumptions about intelligence. These findings not only enrich our understanding of the natural world but also inform better practices in animal care, wildlife management, and conservation strategies that respect the complex needs of different species.
Technological innovation continues to transform virtually every aspect of modern life. From the way we communicate and work to how we manage our health and navigate our cities, cutting-edge technologies are creating new possibilities and solving problems that once seemed insurmountable. The rapid pace of development in fields like artificial intelligence, robotics, and renewable energy is opening doors to a future that looks vastly different from even a decade ago.
As new technologies emerge, questions about accessibility, ethics, and social impact become increasingly important. Ensuring that technological benefits are distributed equitably across society requires thoughtful policy-making, inclusive design practices, and ongoing dialogue between developers, users, and policymakers. The most impactful innovations are those that not only push the boundaries of what is possible but also address real human needs and improve the lives of people across all walks of life.
Art and creative expression have always played a fundamental role in how we process emotions, communicate ideas, and build connections across cultures. Whether through visual arts, music, literature, or performance, creative works have the power to inspire, challenge, and heal. In an increasingly digital world, artists are finding new ways to reach audiences and create experiences that bridge traditional and contemporary forms of expression.
Supporting the arts through public funding, community spaces, and educational programs is essential for maintaining a vibrant cultural landscape. Studies have consistently shown that engagement with the arts improves mental health, enhances cognitive abilities, and strengthens community bonds. By valuing and investing in creative endeavors, societies foster innovation, empathy, and a sense of shared identity that enriches the lives of all their members.
The power of community action is evident in countless stories of individuals coming together to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Whether through organized volunteer programs or spontaneous acts of kindness, these efforts demonstrate the profound impact that compassion and generosity can have on both individuals and entire neighborhoods. Research has consistently shown that communities with strong social connections experience better health outcomes, lower crime rates, and greater overall life satisfaction.
Building stronger communities requires intentional effort and ongoing commitment from people of all ages and backgrounds. Mentorship programs, neighborhood gatherings, and collaborative projects create opportunities for meaningful connection and mutual support. In an era where digital communication often replaces face-to-face interaction, the importance of fostering genuine human connections through community engagement has never been more apparent or more necessary.
Looking ahead, developments like the one described in this story offer a glimpse into a future filled with possibility and positive change. While challenges certainly remain, the creativity, determination, and compassion demonstrated by the individuals and organizations involved serve as a powerful reminder that progress is always within reach when people are willing to work together toward a common goal.
As we continue to navigate the complexities of modern life, stories like these provide both inspiration and practical examples of how innovation, kindness, and perseverance can make a real difference. By sharing and celebrating these achievements, we not only honor the efforts of those involved but also encourage others to pursue their own ideas for creating positive change in their communities and beyond.
See sample chore lists by age group, from toddlers to teens.
