Keep It Clean: 5 Sure-Fire Tips To Teach Your Kids Good Cleaning Habits

Parents of youngsters will agree, a life of constant clutter gets old fast. It’s important to set some ground-rules for cleanliness early on, to begin to teach your kids responsibility. Take the following rules into consideration when creating your game-plan.

No Toy Left Behind!

Keep a one-at-a-time toy policy. When your little one tires of their activity and asks for another, put them in charge of cleaning the first up. Don’t be afraid to jump in and help them clean-up- this shouldn’t be a punishment, but a clear expectation before the next activity can begin.

Finders Keepers

Ever had to remind your kiddo to clean up the same toy more than once? Let them know about the Finders Keepers rule. If you find it, you get to keep it! This will encourage your little one to keep track of all of their toys before you can steal them away.

Choose your Chore

Establish daily chore-time, to teach your children about other cleanliness-related tasks around the house. Each day they can pick a slip from a jar to see what their daily chore will be. Throw some fun-slips into the mix so they’ll be excited to draw each day.

Set a Good Example

Perhaps more important than creating a rigorous chore-system for your young ones is to simply set a good example for them. Keep the house (as much as possible) organized and clutter-free. Invest in a filing cabinet, or other in-home storage systems to keep your things together. Need a back-up plan? Think about utilizing outside storage space. Check out Fontana, CA Storage Units for options and pricing information.

Positive Reinforcement

Always reward a job well-done. Remember all those toys you acquired thanks to the Finders Keepers rule?? Now is the time to re-introduce those long-lost friends! Find other ways of rewarding your kids as well, especially when they pick things up without being asked. They’ll appreciate the attention you’re giving their efforts, and be bursting with pride at their accomplishments.

Whatever routine you choose to implement, consistency is key. Make a plan, stick to it, but don’t be afraid to create new twists to jazz things up. Above all, be gentle and patient with your children as they learn the rules. Remember, you set the example they will follow, so keep it clean!

 

Rianne Hunter is first, a mother to three boys, and second, an avid writer. Currently residing in Riverside California, she’s been writing since she was a little girl, and aspires to be a published novelist one day.

Tags: cleaning, guest, parenting