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If there are 2 rooms in the house that get the most messed up that quickest it is my childrenās room. They are 3 and 5 and in DESTROY mode I feel like. I wanted to write an article that includes ideas that help me in order to help other momās keep their childrenās room clean. Some of you may be saying, āWho cares what my childās room is like? Itās their room and they should be free to do what they want with it.ā Here are some reasons why itās important that our kids keep their rooms picked up:
Fostering a clean and organized space can contribute significantly to your kiddoās well-being. It not only instills good habits for the future but also creates a calming environment at home. I mean, I know what I feel like when my house is a mess, my mind feels crazy and a little more uncontrollable than it already is. When my daughter and son have a picked up room, I feel like they end up being even more proud of themselves when their rooms are picked up and stay that way.
Here are some practical tips to help your kids keep their rooms clean and picked up:
**1. Lead by Example:**
Children learn by watching their parents. Show them how you maintain cleanliness in shared spaces. Involve them in your organizing efforts, explaining the benefits of a tidy environment. For instance, when you declutter a room, talk about how much easier it is to find belongings when everything has its place.
**2. Make it a Routine:**
Establishing a cleaning routine can help children develop a sense of responsibility. Set aside a specific time each day or week dedicated to tidying up their rooms. Breaking this time into manageable segments can prevent them from feeling overwhelmed. For example, a quick 10-minute tidy-up before bedtime can become a daily habit.
**3. Use Clear and Fun Storage Solutions:**
Ā Invest in colorful bins, baskets, and shelves to make organizing fun. Encourage your kids to categorize their itemsābooks, toys, art suppliesāand store them accordingly. Labels or pictures can help younger children understand where things belong, making it easier for them to clean up after themselves. Here is an idea list with plenty of fun things that will help your kiddo keep their room organized in my Kids Room Organization pintrest board!:)
**4. Create a Cleaning Checklist:**
Ā Develop a Simple Checklist (I like these because you can add anything you want to them for when your kids get older). This can include tasks such as making their bed, putting away clothes, and organizing toys. A visual checklist can help kids track their progress and feel accomplished when they complete each task.
**5. Turn Cleaning into a Game:**
Ā Transform tidying up into a fun activity. Set a timer and challenge your kids to pick up as many items as they can before time runs out. You could also reward them for their efforts with a small treat or extra screen time. Making it a lighthearted competition can motivate them to engage in cleaning. I will sometimes ask our google to play a fun song, so we ALL get energized and enthusiastic about picking up!Ā Right now we are doing Jackson Fiveās song āI Want You Back.ā Itās a good one!
**6. Encourage Donation and Recycling:**
Teach your kids the importance of decluttering by encouraging them to donate items they no longer use. Periodically go through their belongings together and let them decide what to keep and what can be given away. This not only keeps their room clean but also fosters generosity and responsibility. Honestly if you have a box in their closet that says donation, it may help them do it even when you arenāt reminding them to declutter.Ā Ā I chose the cardboard version because then you can box it up and bring it to goodwill when it’s full!
**7. Praise and Positive Reinforcement:**
Always acknowledge their efforts, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement can go a long way. Compliment them when they keep their room clean or finish their cleaning tasks. This recognition will motivate them to continue maintaining a tidy space. I will never forget when I was a kid how I looked forward to what my parents would say while I was picking up or cleaning.:)
**8. Practice Small Habits Together.**
This may not be that big of a deal to some, but I feel like it will be life changing when they are older. When you are helping them get ready for bed and putting their jammies on, have them throw their dirty clothes in their hamper. I have one for both of them and it is by the stairs for easy grab and go for me. Just this little thing will help them at least clear their clothes from the floor. Itās a habit Iām trying to do myself, hopefully it will stick with me too!
**9. Be Patient and Consistent:**
Change wonāt happen overnight. Be patient as your kids learn to take ownership of their space. Consistency in your approach will help reinforce the habit. Remember, everyone has different standards for cleanliness, so focus on steady improvement rather than perfection.
**Conclusion:**
By taking proactive steps and maintaining an encouraging atmosphere, you can help your kids develop a habit of keeping their rooms clean and organized. Not only will this teach them valuable life skills, but it will also create a peaceful and pleasant space for them to enjoy. Remember, itās all about the journey, not the destination. Celebrate the small victories along the way!