Who doesn’t love a good spring cleaning!?
As the weather warms and windows open, it’s the best time to clear out the winter dust and grim. It’s also easy to get the whole family involved!
There are a lot of ways kids at each stage, toddler to teen, can be involved in spring cleaning. These chores can also be really developmentally supportive, so let’s make a list and get going!
Why get kids involved in spring cleaning?
Having all hands, especially the little ones, on deck for spring chores teaches important life skills, responsibility and fosters a sense of independence.
Involving kids with household chores can be so beneficial as they grow!
They learn organization skills, achieve small success that boost self esteem, work problem solving skills and so much more. It’s also an easy way for them to feel involved and important in running their home!
Household chores can support all kinds of developmental skills…
- Executive functioning skills
- Sensory regulation
- Organizational thinking
- Sequencing – first, then, last
- Categorizing and sorting
- Gross and fine motor work
First, make a plan…
Start your spring cleaning with a plan – list out the things that need to be done both inside and outside and decide who will tackle each task. Make sure each child has tasks appropriate for their age so they can be challenged but not overwhelmed.
You can create a checklist for each child and let them tick off each chore as they complete it. Encourage kids to think about what they would like to start with first and then allow them to make their own plan for completing each job.
If kids need a bit of motivation, turn spring cleaning chores into a game! Assign points for each task completed and have prizes planned. Or create incentives – a special family meal, outing or surprise – once all jobs have been completed!
There are a lot of ways to get the whole gang involved and motivated – do what works best for you!
Inside Spring Cleaning Chores
Dusting
A great task for younger kids; use a Swiffer duster or soft cloth and show them how to carefully dust designated surfaces.
Washing windows (inside and out)
Washing the windows involves big muscle movements and practices task planning.
Washing baseboards & wiping cabinets
An easy-to-do job for smaller kids that allows for immediate success!
Moving furniture to vacuum and mop
This job involves heavy work, great for sensory input, and spatial planning. A good task for older kids with supervision.
Sort winter clothes for charity
Work on categorizing and organization as you go through winter items for donation.
Clean out and organize closets
A great way for kids to take ownership of their space – cleaning out and organizing closets practice sorting skills and task management.
Outside Spring Cleaning Chores
Clearing dead leaves and weeds
Get some good gross motor work in as kids pull, dig and work in the yard.
Planting flowers and seeds
A great planning activity that practices sequencing (first, then, last) and fine motor skills.
Power washing deck/patio
Another great older kid job! Allow them to learn how to use equipment safely and responsibly with supervision as they wash down outdoor spaces.
Clean outdoor furniture
For younger kiddos, a bucket of water and scrub brush will help them tackle this big outdoor job!
Sweep out garage/shed
A great gross motor task for all kids. Pushing and sweeping work large muscles and provide sensory input.
Clean out cars
An awesome group activity! Divide up tasks – garbage collection, wiping down seats, vacuuming interior – and tackle each car as a family!
Spring cleaning can be a fun group effort when you get the kiddos involved!
As they move down their chore list, it’s also important for parents and caregivers to remain positive, supportive and motivating!
Model the job for each child and let them know how appreciative you are that they are helping.
Keep the conversation positive – talk about how they plan to tackle each job, which tasks they might need a bit of help with and how proud you are of the work they are doing!
Positive praise will keep kids excited to help!
If you’re looking for more ways to get kids involved in day-to-day activities! Follow Beyond Speech on Instagram and Facebook or reach out to us with any questions!
We are always sharing ways to play with a purpose!