Chore guide
Set the table
Put out plates, cups, forks, spoons and napkins.
- 1 star
- Ages 3 to 12
- Daily
- Kitchen and table
Children can help set the table from age 3 by carrying napkins and spoons, and set it fully by 7 or 8. It is one of the best first family chores because it happens every day and kids see it matters.
Try this week with your kids
Noki suggests a first week of quests and rewards for your kids. You change what you like before you start.
Why it matters
Setting the table makes kids part of the family meal before it starts. It teaches counting, planning and a little table etiquette along the way.
Steps for kids
- Count how many people are eating.
- Put a placemat or plate at each seat.
- Fork on the left, spoon on the right.
- Put a cup and a napkin at each place.
- Add the water jug in the middle.
How to teach it by age
- Ages 3 to 4
Carry napkins and spoons to the table, one place at a time.
- Ages 5 to 6
Put out plates, cups and cutlery. Count the places out loud.
- Ages 7 to 8
Set the whole table, including the water jug and serving spoons.
- Ages 9 to 10
Set the table for guests and special meals.
- Ages 11 to 12
Set and decorate the table for celebrations.
Questions parents ask
At what age can a child set the table?
Most 3 year olds can carry napkins and spoons. By 5 or 6 they can put out plates and cups, and by 7 or 8 they can set the whole table on their own.
