Age 3 to 5: Make it Fun
Preschool: Motivate Them
It’s important to make cleaning a routine. However, younger kids may need something more than just learning the value of hard work. “Try to figure out what motivates your child,” says Reichert. “Some children like charts, stickers or even just a small treat. Whatever motivates your child, use it to help them learn how to make cleaning a habit.”
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Preschool: Deal With Laundry
By preschool, your children can handle all laundry that comes through the bathroom space. “They should put dirty clothes that they take off into a nearby laundry basket, and hang up their towels on hooks,” says Ford Berry.
Elementary: Windows
During elementary school, your kids can take more initiative cleaning their bathrooms. Start with the basics, and wipe down a window. “Have your children learn to clean with just water,” says Reichert. “Fill up a spray bottle. Have your child use the spray bottle and a microfiber cloth to help you clean windows. By using microfiber and water, you may actually get your windows clean!”
Elementary: Make It Spotless
Continue with the water wipe-down, having your kids clean bathroom sinks and countertops. Ford Berry recommends children do this a couple times a week. If it’s helpful, designate two days for bathroom cleaning and ask your kids to remember them so you don’t have to nag.
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Ages 10 to 12: Remove Clutter
Old toothbrushes, empty shampoo bottles and broken brushes have no place in your kids’ bathroom. Have children nix old items at least once a month. “Clutter is the main reason that rooms don't get cleaned,” says Reichert. “Teach them that they can get rid of the things they do not use, and show them where and how to do it.” That could mean recycling empty containers or taking items to the trash bin.
Ages 10 to 12: Teach the Dirty Work
Not-so-breaking news: Cleaning toilets and mirrors are not fun tasks. However, Ford Berry says you should teach your kids how to do both these chores by age 10 or 11. Show them how it’s done once or twice, and then they can add these to their weekly to-do list.
