5 Tips for Having Kids Help Around The House
1. Lead by example, and talk to your kids about why we keep things organized and our house clean (we can find what we need and we don't hurt ourselves walking around).
2. Use "threats" in a way that is realistic. For example, if toy is stepped on it will get broken and have to be thrown away; if the swimsuit is not hung up to dry, it will get moldy; or if action figures are left around, the dog will eat them.
3. Set rules about chores/tasks and what needs to be done before playtime or a fun activity. This can be hard but once a child has missed a playdate or lost TV privileges, they are much more likely to be cooperative.
4. Create a tasks/chores chart with rewards (not my favorite type of plan but works well for many kids).
5. Make clean up and organizing easy for kids by organizing in a logical fashion, and creating zones and centers for things that need to be done. For example, a lunch making center in the fridge and/or pantry, labeled bins for art supplies that fit neatly on a shelf, hanging cubbies in the closet that store the clothes for the week.
Keep in mind that it takes time, and repetition for kids to really catch on to the "why's" but not so much for the "how's". If systems are set up properly, kids can use them and will, once they get the hang of it. Remember, that nagging is not useful, but reminders and consequences are.
Written by Liz Jenkins of a Fresh Space :: home staging and thoughtful organizing www.afreshspace.com
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5 Tips for Having Kids Help Around The House
