I think it depends on how far in age the siblings are apart. For example if the oldest is 14 and the other to are 10 and 11 then everyone should help out. Just because the child is the oldest doesn't mean it's his/her responsibility(even though it would be nice). If the other kids are old enough that they can help out then they should.

I think rayray says it good but I dont consider it helping out. My kids have chores to do whether I am working or not.

Absolutely! Whether their parents work or if they stay at home! And not simply the oldest. I have nine kids and they helped make the mess - they help clean it. Everybody works together. We are a family and it's a matter of everyone pulling together and working together as a family. I have 6 boys and 3 girls. The boys can cook a simple meal (a few can even make a roast from start to finish) they clean as well as any woman out there, they do their own laundry, and they all know how and do change diapers. Hopefully my boys future wives will appreciate this as well. Besides, they aren't guaranteed that they will be married the minute they leave home... as my 19 year old has found out. He can take care of himeself and his home. My girls are taught how to do typical "guy" stuff as well if anyone is wondering. My oldest is 21 and she had to help in the yard right along side of the boys and she learned how to check and change most of the fluids in her vehicle. She was taught how but her brothers and dad did it for her most of the time. The other two girls are 5 and 7 and will experience the same things. Even now, my 2 year old boy takes a rag around and wipes things down. It's not perfect but that's not the point. When he's not looking - I finish the job. All the jobs are age appropriate. My children aren't slaves.We simply work together as a unit.