| To a toddler most everyday chores can be made into | | | | Filling and emptying the washing machine. Folding and |
| a game, and mopping, dusting, washing, and brushing | | | | putting away clothes follows on from this, and can |
| are just a few. You can either buy 'toy' household | | | | include pairing up socks, sorting clothes into a pile for |
| cleaning items, or what seems to be much more fun, is | | | | each member of the family. |
| helping Mom by using hers. Kids love to copy and help, | | | | Washing up. My son loves washing up his dishes after |
| all the more when they are praised for their help. | | | | meals. OK, so I let him do this more in the summer - |
| I have a dustpan and brush that just my toddler uses, | | | | outside. Plastic crockery is a must as it means no |
| this way I know it is clean, and he just loves brushing | | | | breakages! |
| up crumbs when he's eaten a biscuit, or thrown cereal | | | | Window cleaning. A soft cloth with no cleaner on is |
| all over the floor. This 'game' also helps him understand | | | | perfect for your little one to help keep the windows |
| that you have to clean up if you've made a mess. Of | | | | clean. With lots of praise, they will be really pleased |
| course your little helper will probably be more of a | | | | that they have been such a big help. Do make sure |
| hindrance than a help, but it is fun to a toddler and | | | | the window is secure, firmly locked shut, and at ground |
| does help them learn about chores around the house | | | | level - shut doors are great. |
| that have to be done, | | | | Washing the car. A favourite with my son. He just |
| Other chores that work well with kids 'helping': | | | | loves the bubbles, the water, 'being grown up' an d |
| Sweeping up leaves outside. The 'big brush' seems too | | | | getting very very wet! |
| big for my 'helper' but he manages quite well, and | | | | Never leave your child unattended while they are |
| insists on brushing up, even when there is nothing to | | | | 'helping' you with chores. |
| sweep. | | | | |