Tidy-Up Time with Tots: Making Cleanup Fun!
Hey Mama! 🌟
I have something to admit……I’m guilty (on the daily) of cleaning up after my kids. All I want is for them to learn to do it themselves, but I find myself valuing efficiency over taking the time to teach them.
But! When I do this, I rob them of the opportunity to learn a new skill and we miss out on a sweet time of connection and growth.
So this week I’m taking a step back and allowing a little more mess and a lot more learning! Wanna join me?
Here are a few tips to make cleanup a breeze and bring a little magic to the process:
The Tidy-Up Jam 🎵: Turn on some fun music that your kids love. Have them pick up toys but don't let them stop dancing while they do it. Join in on the fun and let them see your silly moves! 🎶
Race Against the Clock ⏰: Make it a game! Set a visual timer and see if your kiddos can beat the clock by putting their toys away before it dings.
Sticker Stars ✨: Create a reward chart with colorful stickers. Every time your kids tidy up, they earn a sticker. After a certain number of stickers, they get a special treat or outing!
Make It a Team Effort 💪: Join in the fun! Show your kids that tidying up can be a family affair. When they see you participating, they'll be even more excited to help. (this is probably the best one to start with if you haven't taught your kids how to tidy yet. They need you to actually teach them what to do, don't assume they just know!)
The Toy Fairy 🧚♂️: Share stories about the "Toy Fairy" who visits tidy rooms and leaves small surprises (or even a little money-I’m talking a quarter or penny) in exchange for clean-up efforts. The mystery adds an element of excitement.
The 5-Minute Blitz ⚡: Set a timer for just 5 minutes and declare it a "clean-up blitz." Have everyone in the family help and work together as a team. It's exciting to see how much can be accomplished in a short time with everyone working together! (this is a favorite in our house!)
The key is to let them do it imperfectly and honor them for their hard work! Having your kids feel like they are part of the process breeds confidence and helps them feel like a contributing member of the family! (and it takes a few monkeys off your back!)
Celebrate even the tiniest victories, and soon enough, your little ones will take pride in their tidy rooms. 🌟
Try one of these ideas today, and tag me on insta and let me know how it goes 💪💖