If you have ever uttered the words in the title, you may find this article helpful. While offering rewards, making veiled threats, and even holding out on dessert or fun activities may sometimes work, there has to be a better way to get kids to keep their rooms clean.
These mom tested tips should help!
Schedule Time for Room Upkeep
Make straightening your child’s room a part of everyday chores, or set aside a few minutes before bedtime for him or her to tidy up. Add additional time on weekends if necessary. This time can be used for more detailed cleaning instead of simple straightening.
Time the Job
Set a timer for a reasonable, agreed upon amount of time and have kids start cleaning. When the timer rings your child can take a break or do something else, as long as there is noticeable progress in the room. If the room is not done, wait a little while, and then set the timer again. Continue until the room is acceptable.
Trade Jobs
Offer to trade tasks with your child. You can decide to have him or her do the dishes or tackle another chore while you clean up the room. Another alternative is to let your kids trade jobs amongst themselves or to even trade off and clean up each other’s rooms to break up the monotony.
Apply Logical Consequences
A good example is making it a rule that if dirty clothes are not in the hamper, laundry basket, or wherever they are supposed to be, they will not get washed. Make it clear that you will not pick up dirty clothes from the bed, the floor, or anywhere else except the designated spot. This method will help teach your child that there are consequences not only for actions but also when one does not take the appropriate action.