Cleaning can be stressful when you handle it all yourself. When kids are finally old enough to help, it’s a relief for parents with many responsibilities. However, kids often need encouragement to do chores. It’s important to develop good habits early, like picking up after themselves and helping with age-appropriate tasks. Here are some effective do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when cleaning with kids. Take a look.
Start Them Off Young
Toddlers enjoy helping their parents because it makes them feel important and accomplished. Instilling this value early on will benefit them for the rest of their lives.
Do: Have realistic expectations. Encourage toddlers to pick up their toys by demonstrating how. Show appreciation with extra hugs and kisses when they do their part.
Don’t: Raise your voice or punish them for not picking up toys. Remember, they are still learning and may not fully understand. Avoid withholding affection; instead, show them that picking up toys is good behavior.
Encourage Kids to Help
While many household tasks are simple, young children might struggle with them. For instance, making the bed can be challenging.
Do: Ask them to help make the bed. Even if it's just pulling the comforter to the top, involve them to build the habit of making the bed every morning.
Don’t: Criticize them if the bed isn’t perfect. Focus on their willingness to help. Avoid redoing their work in front of them, as it can discourage their efforts.
Being Specific Goes a Long Way
By ages 5 or 6, kids should take more responsibility for their actions and belongings. Providing clear, specific instructions is crucial for ensuring they follow through.
Do: Give them one instruction at a time. For example, ask them to put away toys first, then straighten the bed.
Don’t: Instruct them to "clean your room." This can be too overwhelming. Avoid giving them a long list of tasks at once; instead, break it down and give one task at a time.
Supervised Cleaning Duties
The kitchen requires daily cleaning due to the mess from cooking, but it also contains sharp objects and appliances that can be dangerous for kids.
Do: Supervise kids (9-10 years old) when they wash dishes and clean kitchen counters, especially when the stove is on. For tasks like vacuuming or cleaning windows (ages 10 and above), keep an eye on them to ensure they handle motorized appliances and chemical cleaners safely.
Don’t: Allow kids to wash sharp objects like knives and graters. Wait until they are older to handle glassware. Avoid assigning them tasks in heavily soiled areas, as they may not have the strength to scrub effectively.
Make a Weekly Cleaning Chart
A schedule helps keep cleaning duties on track and teaches kids the habit of regular house cleaning, making them more responsible.
Do: Create a realistic and fair chart. Keep Sundays off and assign less strenuous tasks on Saturdays so kids can enjoy their weekends.
Don’t: Overload any single day with too many chores or assign tough jobs to one child on consecutive days. An unfair chart will lead to complaints.
Conclusion
Starting kids off young with household chores lays the foundation for a lifetime of responsibility and contribution to the family. Encouraging them to help, being specific with instructions, and supervising their tasks ensure they learn valuable skills safely.
By incorporating a weekly cleaning chart, children develop the habit of regular cleaning while maintaining a fair and manageable workload. With patience, encouragement, and clear guidance, children can become active participants in maintaining a tidy and organized home environment.
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