This toddler laundry hack is dividing parents—genius or too much too soon?

A viral video is making waves among parents, showing an incredibly simple yet effective trick for getting toddlers involved in household chores—without the usual resistance.

A viral Instagram reel from @the_goddard_fam shows a toddler using a clever DIY cardboard tool to fold clothes. The video has racked up over 66.7 million views, with many calling it “genius.” But not everyone agrees—while some parents love the hack as a way to teach independence, others argue that toddlers should be playing, not doing laundry. The comment section is a mix of praise, playful jokes, and even accusations of turning kids into “mini retail workers.”

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A post shared by George & Deb & Nelio & Mila (@the_goddard_fam)

A parenting win—or too much too soon?

The internet is divided. Many commenters praised the hack for fostering early independence: 

• “Gross motor, counting, and life skills all in one go. You go momma!” — @invalidtoaster
• “As a 51-year-old toddler, I need one of these!” — @denali74
• “This is the age when kids want to help and be involved. If you wait too long, it’ll be much harder to teach responsibility.” — @larsjayvee

Others, however, weren’t as convinced:

• “Seriously? The kid has their entire life to be folding laundry. Give them some toys and get down on the floor to play instead.” — @queeniek11
• “Let kids be kids! What happened to childhood being about fun?” — @rubx17
• CHILD LABOR BACK IN!?” — @jaid_n7908

Related: Parent’s laundry fail goes viral after 60 toddler socks mysteriously disappear

The expert take: Toddlers actually want to help—when it’s fun

Child development specialists note that toddlers naturally imitate adult behavior and are often eager to help with everyday tasks. According to Montessori principles, involving young children in practical life activities—like folding laundry—can boost fine motor skills, sequencing, and confidence in their abilities.

Experts say there’s value in teaching toddlers age-appropriate tasks early. Jill Trumbell, assistant professor of human development and family studies at the University of New Hampshire, explained in USA Today, “It gives them a sense of ownership, that it’s not just adults doing everything for us. We’re all members of this family.”

This aligns with child development research, which suggests that early participation in chores fosters self-confidence and teamwork.

Chores like folding laundry or pressing buttons on a washing machine can be fun, developmentally appropriate ways to involve toddlers in household tasks. The key, experts say, is making the activity feel like a choice rather than an obligation.

It’s important to read a child’s cues—if they’re too tired, not in the mood, or focused on another task, forcing them to participate can backfire.

“We need to find a good balance between helping children develop self-help skills and recognizing when they might not want to do things,” says Trumbell.

Creative ways to get toddlers involved in chores

For parents who want to encourage independence but aren’t sure where to start, experts suggest thinking outside the box. Here are a few age-appropriate ways toddlers can help at home:

• Folding small towels or socks:  Start with easier items before moving to full-size clothes.
• Pressing buttons on the washing machine: A fun, low-effort way to engage them in laundry tasks.
• Wiping tables with a damp cloth: A simple task that strengthens fine motor skills.
• Setting napkins on the table: Encourages participation in family meals.

The key is to frame chores as play—not work.

The bigger takeaway: Fostering independence, on a child’s terms

Regardless of where parents stand on this particular hack, many agree that teaching life skills in a playful way is valuable.

• “Kids naturally want to mimic what they see their parents doing. When they show interest, it’s a great opportunity to encourage them.” — @journey_l1fe
• “One of the most valuable things you can give to children is a good relationship with chores. If they see it as Just A Thing You Do, there’s a lot less pressure later in life.” — @tinka1709
• “Teaching kids young doesn’t take away their childhood—it empowers them to be capable and confident adults.” — @melrumphius

For those wondering how to incorporate chores into a child’s daily routine in a positive way, experts recommend making it engaging, keeping expectations flexible, and ensuring tasks are age-appropriate. 

Whether you’re raising an eager little helper or just looking for a way to make folding less of a chore, this viral hack might be worth trying. And if your toddler refuses? No worries—there’s always next time.

Related: Age-appropriate chores for your toddler—from 14 months to 5 years old