Since I've started playing VV, I am always reminded of the book/movie Swiss Family Robinson.

I agree that the children around 8 - 10 years of age could be able to do some chores. While the older children 11 - 13 could do the laundry, forage and help the younger children with their chores. The older children could be allowed to watch the adults build and do the science/technology; maybe even running errands for the scientists like getting water.

Of course, young children in real life are easily distracted or clumsy so should the children in VV.

Even without all the suggestions, VV is still a great game.