One of the toughest challenges parents often need to face with their kids is getting them to clean their rooms. For many kids, few chores are fun. However, you do not want your kids to grow up in a room that is filthy.
In particular, teenagers’ rooms can become
Do Chores Together at First
When your kids are still young, you should do their chores with them. They will not know at first what a clean room should consist of or why it is important to clean a bedroom. You can go over each step of the process so that your kids gradually learn. You can even turn it into a fun bonding activity by turning on some music or making games out of cleaning. Another option is to just talk with your kids.
Give Your Kids Pride Over the Room
A great way to convince your kids to clean is to allow them to decorate it as they wish. Many children do not clean because they feel as though it is just a room where they sleep. However, you can make it clear this is their room. Allow them to put up the posters they want and arrange the furniture how they please. With this freedom, your kids will feel more inclined to clean it up because it is now a reflection of who they are.
Set a Good Example
Kids soak in a lot more information than parents give them credit for. They pay attention to everything you do. If they see that you keep your bedroom a mess, then they are more likely to do the same. You may have a tendency to ignore your chores too from time to time. However, you still want to take time out of the week to clean your own bedroom. When your kids see you cleaning your bedroom and the rest of the house, they realize they need to do their part.
Define What Consists of a Clean Room
It may take your kids awhile to actually clean the room rather than stuff everything into the closet. That is all right at first. You just need some patience. Show your kids the proper way to make a bed. You can show which clothes need to be hung up and which ones can go in the drawer. Your kids should know where you keep the vacuum cleaner and other essential supplies, provided they are the right age, so they can slowly begin cleaning independently.
Regularly Clear Items Out
One way to keep children’s rooms clean is to get rid of items when too much starts to build up. If your child has far too many toys, then it may be time to donate some of them. The same rule applies to used clothing. Young kids will outgrow clothing quickly, so throw away or donate items as you get new ones.
Offer Incentives
For some kids, you may need to offer an incentive. It does not have to be anything extravagant. For example, you can state that your children will only receive their allowances after all of their chores are complete. No chores mean no allowance. You can also incentivize your kids with a movie night, but the movie will only start once the rooms are clear. This way you are not bribing your kids. You are just giving them extra incentive.
Be Ready for Teenage Rebellion
Your youngsters may become professionals at cleaning their bedrooms. However, it is quite common for teenagers to fall back on bad habits. They may seclude themselves in their rooms more and dirty the place up. This is completely natural. You just need to kindly remind your teen of his or her responsibilities.
Cleaning is not fun for many kids. However, you still need to make it clear cleaning their rooms is essential. With a little hard work and encouragement, your kids will continue being good cleaners for the rest of their lives.