It’s that time of the year when Halloween is slowly crawling its way into our neighborhoods once again. From an assured sugar rush and fun costumes to a scary vibe that permeates the festivities and encourages kids to dream and play, it’s no wonder that Halloween is one of the most popular and beloved family holidays.
It’s also a great opportunity for parents to pass on valuable lessons to their toddlers when they are more open to learning new things. One of the crucial life lessons that kids should learn from an early age is the importance of home cleaning in Houston. Halloween gives you the option of combining the euphoria of festivities with a fun learning experience on the need to keep your living environment neat and healthy.
What age should kids start cleaning the house?
Like with most things involving kids, starting them early is best. However, it’s important to consider their age and developmental stage when selecting the tasks. Not all kids are the same or have the same energy levels and interests so keep this in mind if they show hesitancy at first.
Generally, toddlers as young as 2 or 3 should start brushing their teeth, bathing themselves, and using the bathroom on their own. Once they turn 4, they can start participating in simple housekeeping tasks with your supervision, including picking up toys, folding clothes, and wiping surfaces with a damp cloth.
How to teach children to tidy up?
In this early stage, patience is key. The point is not in the perfect execution but in setting the foundation for the future. Here are a few steps that can help you make the process smoother:
Be a good role model
Little kids look at their parents as role models to emulate. So the first thing to note is that you have to walk the walk and provide your toddler with a positive example that sets the standards for them to follow. Explain why cleaning is important and answer all their questions in a way that illustrates your investment in keeping a tidy home.
Make it a game
Children will be so much more responsive to pursuits they consider a game rather than a chore. This is where trick or treat comes in handy as a way to engage them in activities they would otherwise look to avoid. For example, you could set aside small chores as tricks or shower them with treats after completing a task.
Give clear instructions
One of the most important things to remember when teaching toddlers new tasks is to give them clear, step-by-step instructions. You can do this by breaking tasks into smaller steps, going through them together for the first time, and challenging them to do a repeat on their own. Instead of ordering them to clean their room, approach them in a way that provides structure like ‘Let’s start by putting the toys in the bin, then we’ll make the bed, and finally, we’ll vacuum the floor.’
Teach the value of responsibility
Kids are more receptive to new ideas and responsibilities when they have a clear understanding of why they are supposed to do certain things. Make it clear that house cleaning plays an important part in their mental and physical well-being and acts as an extension of our personal hygiene.
Reward, praise & encourage
When kids are learning new lessons, positive reinforcement is essential. Even if their results are less than perfect, always celebrate their endeavors because it’s the effort and application that count. Tell them that practice makes perfect and that they’re bound to get better at house cleaning over time. Of course, after their work is done, it’s time for a treat!
Where can I find dependable home cleaning in Houston, TX & the surrounding areas?
With more than 5 decades of experience, a carefully assembled team of honest and diligent pros, and the finest cleaning products and solutions, Maids and Moore has everything you need to maintain a spotless home throughout the year.
Whether you’re looking for post-Halloween house cleaning tips, advice on how to sanitize during the flu season, or you’d like to surprise someone with our Black Friday gift certificate, we’re always here to offer advice and let you in on as much detail as you wish to learn.
Don’t hesitate to spend a fun day with your loved ones at Downtown Aquarium while our professionals apply their know-how and elbow grease to welcome you into a spotless and shiny home. Reach out to us today!