Want happier, more successful kids? Harvard research has the answer!

If you’ve ever struggled to get your kids to help out around the house (cue the dramatic groans and eye rolls), you’re not alone. But here’s the good news: those chores you’re encouraging them to do? They’re actually helping shape your kids into confident, independent, and successful adults.

Don’t just take our word for it—science agrees!

In an 75-year multigenerational Harvard study on high achievers, researchers found that doing chores during childhood is a strong predictor of later success. Kids who grew up helping around the house were not only more likely to thrive in their careers but were also happier and more fulfilled as adults.

But the benefits don’t stop there. Here’s what giving your kids chores really does:

How Chores Shape Kids for Success

1. It Builds Confidence Through Small Wins

Think about how good you feel when you tick something off your to-do list. (Hello, dopamine boost!) For kids, accomplishing even the smallest task—like putting away their toys—sparks that same sense of pride.

When 4-year-old Ellie puts her shoes in the cupboard and gets a high-five for it? She’s not just putting away shoes; she’s learning that her actions have value. That little victory boosts her confidence and sets the stage for tackling bigger challenges down the road.

2. It Teaches Responsibility and Teamwork

When kids help out with chores, they start to see themselves as part of a team—one where everyone works together to keep the home running smoothly.

Imagine this: 7-year-old Max helps set the dinner table every night. It’s a small task, but it teaches him that his contribution matters. He sees firsthand how his actions make things easier for the family, which builds empathy and a sense of shared responsibility.

Plus, teamwork is a life skill they’ll carry into adulthood. Whether it’s collaborating with coworkers or pitching in during family holidays, these lessons stick with them.

3. It Develops a Strong Work Ethic

Let’s face it—most of us didn’t love doing chores as kids. But those tasks taught us the value of hard work. The same goes for our children.

By encouraging kids to stick to their daily tasks, you’re helping them build a work ethic that will serve them well throughout their lives. They’ll learn the importance of showing up, following through, and doing their part, even when the task isn’t their favourite. (Because let’s be real, not every job in life is as fun as feeding the dog or watering plants!)

4. It Creates Happier Kids (and Adults!)

Here’s where it gets really exciting: kids who do chores aren’t just more successful later in life—they’re also happier.

A study published in the Journal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics found that children who regularly help out with chores by age 4 or 5 report higher levels of self-confidence, social skills, and even life satisfaction by third grade.

That’s because accomplishments—no matter how small—feel amazing. And when kids feel good about themselves, it has a ripple effect on their overall happiness and mental well-being.

Starting Early Makes a Difference

Here’s the kicker: to get the most out of these benefits, it’s best to start young.

When kids as young as 4 or 5 begin helping with small, age-appropriate tasks (like feeding pets, tidying up toys, or wiping the table), they’re already building the foundation for independence and responsibility.

And the best part? You don’t have to tackle this alone.

How Nelli Makes Chores Fun for Kids (and Easier for Parents!)

Let’s be honest—getting kids excited about chores can sometimes feel impossible. That’s exactly why we created Nelli!

Nelli is a smart task management system that turns boring old chores into a fun, interactive experience. Our Smart Home Hub makes it easy for kids to take charge of their daily responsibilities while you enjoy fewer arguments and more smiles.

Here’s how Nelli makes it happen:

• Task Timers and Reminders: Gentle nudges keep kids on track (so you don’t have to!).
• Star Points and Rewards: Completing tasks earns points that can be redeemed for rewards you set. Whether it’s extra screen time, a special treat, or a family activity, kids love working toward something fun!
• Celebration Animations: Every task completed triggers a mini celebration, with dancing avatars, funky tunes, and lots of positive vibes.
• Customisation for Kids: Your child can pick their own avatar and notification jingle, making the whole experience feel personal and exciting.

Chores as a Family Team Effort

One of the best things about Nelli is that it’s not just about assigning tasks—it’s about building teamwork.

Picture this: You’re tidying up the living room while your 5-year-old uses Nelli to check off their “pick up toys” task. The two of you are working together, side by side, to tackle a shared goal.

This teamwork reinforces that chores aren’t a punishment; they’re a way to contribute to the family’s “ecosystem.” And when kids feel like they’re part of something bigger, their motivation to help naturally grows.

Happy Home, Happy Kids

Chores aren’t just about clean rooms or empty dishwashers—they’re about raising kids who feel confident, capable, and connected to the people around them.

With Nelli, chores become less of a battle and more of a bonding experience. You’ll watch your kids grow in independence, responsibility, and happiness—all while making your home life run a little smoother.

So why not let Nelli help? Together, we can make chores fun, build lifelong skills, and raise kids who are ready to take on the world.

👉 Ready to transform your family’s routine? Click here to get a Nelli!