Easy Ways Toddlers Can Help Clean

Toddlers can help with simple cleaning tasks without causing you a lot of extra work. Try giving your child some of the following cleaning jobs around the house. All toddlers spill. It's a fact of life. Early on, hand them a towel when they spill and ask them to clean it up. Don't just do it for them! It's easy for a toddler to wipe up a spill, and while they might not get all of it cleaned up, they will learn to clean up after themselves.

Invest in a carpet sweeper. These are ideal for some families, especially if your child is afraid of the vacuum! Some are even made with a handle you can shorten and make just the right length for your toddler to push around! If your child isn't afraid of the vacuum, try giving them a hand-held vacuum. Be sure to point out spots to vacuum at first. Soon, they will be doing the vacuuming without any directions from you!

Another easy way for toddlers to help clean is to give them a baby wipe or a damp washcloth. They can wipe down the wall, low tables, the television screen, or light switch plates. When asking a toddler to help, it is important to be specific. Ask them to wash the front of the fridge. Point out a dirty spot, and ask them to clean it with their cloth. As long as you don't have any breakable items within their reach, this is a safe and easy job for your child!

Teach your toddler about the pick up game! I like to do this before getting ready for bed. You can sing a silly song about picking up their toys, or simply ask them to put away specific items. Your toddler should have an accessible place to put toys away. If you don't have a toy box, a laundry basket works just as well. The younger your child is, the more help and encouragement to continue picking up, rather than playing, they will need.

Most toddlers can learn to sort laundry by color or type. Ask your child to make a pile of towels. You could also ask them to make a pile of whites. Most three year old children can learn their colors, and this kind of activity will strengthen those skills.

Another easy way for toddlers to help clean is helping with non-breakable dishes. Either set up a stool for them at the sink to wash dishes with you, or give them a towel to dry the non-breakable dishes. If you choose to have them wash with you, plan on mopping up afterwards!

Remember to be patient with your child! Toddlers love helping mom and dad. Although at first their help may cause more work for you, giving them the right job to do will really help out! Just take your time and appreciate every effort. Not only will they soon be more helpful, but they will gain confidence in their cleaning abilities.

By teaching and allowing your toddler easy ways to help you clean, you will be building a foundation for cleanliness that will last the rest of their lives!