The fridge is full of expired food and strange smells, the floor has some spots and stains, and clouds of dust reveal themselves in the spring sunlight that streams through the windows. It’s about time to engage in some spring cleaning.
You look forward to having an immaculate living space again, but you dread all the work that goes into it. And there your kids are, the ones responsible for the mess, lying around, browsing the internet, playing video games, and just being plain lazy. Whip those kids into shape; have them help around the house! Teach them a valuable lesson on responsibility and lighten the burden of spring cleaning for yourself – that’s two birds with one stone. Here’s how you do it.
Get Rid of All Those Extra Clothes
When’s the last time your kids have checked their closets? There are probably tons of old shirts, pants, jackets, sweaters, and other outer wear they haven’t worn in what seems like forever. Instead of letting all that clothes just sit there, why not make them useful for someone else, especially those in need? Have your children go through their clothes, pick out ones to donate, and bag them. Then you can take the clothes to a Salvation Army donation booth or other charity organization. You’ll not only be clearing up closet space, but also be doing something good for the world.
Have Fun While Cleaning the Common Areas
Bathrooms, bedrooms, and living rooms – these can be a nightmare to clean up, especially if it hasn’t been done in a while. Both you and your kids may groan at the prospect of such a task, but it doesn’t have to be such drudgery! Why not make things competitive? Everyone enjoys a good game. Set up a timer and make it a race. Or establish a point system for the fulfillment of certain tasks. If you really want your kids to get pumped up and working hard, establish some prizes for the winner.
Keep the Cleaning Going with a Chore Chart
What’s the point of spring cleaning if things are just going to get messy again? Escape the cycle of domestic toil by encouraging cleaning habits in your kids with a chore chart. Assign them weekly or even daily chores and keep track of their accomplishments. Provide periodic rewards for when they satisfactorily and consistently complete their duties. This way, they’ll develop good habits and a sense of discipline.
The attorneys at Peek Law Group, L.L.P. want to remind you to enjoy the springtime with your children after all the cleaning’s done. Have a good one!