Cleaning with Kids Can be Fun!

Housework, children, fun? Do these words belong in the same sentence? Sure but you need to add some creativity to the jobs! First we need to discuss how to assign the jobs. Job charts that rotate chores can be effective. I use a entirely magnetic one that is easy to write-on/wipe-off but charts with a child's name that rotates can also be effective.

Job charts are not for everyone though so I have included other ideas as well. For a yummy alternative you may want to try baking the assignments into cupcakes, muffins or cookies. For best results write the tasks on small slips of paper, then fold the papers inside of tin foil squares so the writing on the papers won't fade when the wet batter touches them. Kids will be eager to do the next job to get seconds on a treat!

Another idea would be to list the chores for the day the night before. The first child out of bed and dressed gets to pick the easiest chore!

If your child cannot read yet here is a job list idea. My kids like me to write their chore list using pictures and codes. It's a fun game for them to decipher the pictures and guess what the job might be.

If dusting is a chore your children don't like, substitute the old dust rag for a feather duster. What kid can resist feathers! Another fun idea, try hiding individually wrapped candy in the nooks and crannies of the furniture! Its a great way to make sure that the picture frames get moved from the mantel!

Be sure and count the number of candies you hide so that the kids can report to you that they found them all and have finished their job.

Children also enjoy anything that involves squirting water! I don't like the kids to waste the entire bottle of window cleaner at once but I find that when I water down the solution it's not as toxic for the kids or my cleaning budget!  

Copyright 2002 Rachel Webb