Like my kids, your kids probably share the bounty of your daily job.  Therefore, kids should be contributing something to the family, reducing some of your work.  No parent should be doing all the work for the family.

From a young age, kids should be helping around the house.  Kids should be taking out the garbage.  No child should leave the kitchen before the dishes are done.  Every kid should learn to dust properly.  This is good for your child, as it teaches him or her skills and allows her to understand that a family works together.

If your older child is home before you, he or she should be responsible for a portion of supper.  Put something in the oven, pare potatoes, and set the table.  He can help make your life easier.  He or she will be learning life skills while fulfilling his responsibility.