Once you know what the room is used for and how often, that will dictate how often it needs to be picked up/cleaned. Here are some things to consider as you work out a maintenance plan:
- Who will be responsible for keeping the room clean, the parent or child? Age and ability will make a difference here, but don’t be afraid to give them some chores in their own rooms and require a minimum level of cleanliness–even for older kids.
- If your child has a desk in the room, this is a good time to teach him how to organize a desk and paperwork. Set up a basic filing system and have a place for bookbags, writing utensils, paper, CDs, and so on.
- Keeping a room picked up can be done by a child of any age.
- Require beds to be made as a sign of diligence and a daily discipline. This one tiny discipline will go a long way toward establishing discipline in other areas.
- Have a regular check-up time to see if the room is cleaned. For example, Saturday mornings before play can begin.
- Plan to invest time in training the child on a properly cleaned room.
- Reward effort (not necessarily results) during the training phase, and occasionally afterward.
- Some kids require a visual chart of all the steps required to clean a room. Support your child’s needs to achieve the desired result: a clean room.
- Don’t be afraid to make cleaning time fun. Sing songs or listen to music. Work in the same room as your child or nearby so they don’t feel like they are in it alone.
- Be a good role model by keeping your own bedroom clean.
This is an excerpt from the Whole House Support Program emails I send out weekly. If you like it, why not join it and get practical help for your house every week.
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