I have not had a “Children and Chores” post in awhile, and now that summer is over (and things might start slowing down), I am ready to have our routine back!
As I have said before, I feel that it is vital for a healthy, happy home, to have children involved in the everyday chores around the house. Fortunately, there are many ways to include even the youngest of children in helping out around the house.
Laundry is a chore that some choose to accomplish all in one day, or to work on day by day. Whatever your method, there are several ways to include your children in your laundry day activities.
:: First of all, we can teach our children to put away their dirty clothes as soon as they remove them. Whether it is before bath time, bedtime, or whenever, show your children where you want their dirty clothes placed. Let them know that each and every time, that is where their dirty clothes go. This will save you time on laundry day, as well as, eliminate some of the picking up you already have to do!
:: Next, let your children help as you gather and sort the laundry. If your clothes hampers are in a room other than your laundry room (as mine are… they are built-in), you will have to gather your clothing before sorting. Allow your children to help you pull all of those clothes out of the hamper(s), and take to the laundry room (or wherever you choose to sort your clothing).
:: I am very particular in the sorting of my clothes, but even if you are not, I’m sure you have separate “loads” of clothing. Have different “bins” or baskets (having the baskets labeled may help your children learn, “what goes where,” more quickly) assigned to each load.
:: Explain to your child about the different loads (towels vs jeans, whites vs darks, etc), and how you want them sorted. Even very young children know the difference between a towel and a pair of jeans, so let them help!
:: My children are fascinated with the washing machine, and watching it fill up with water. Let them help pour in the detergent (with your supervision, of course!), and toss in the clothes.
:: After the clothing has finished the wash cycle, have your children toss the clothes into the dryer, or into a basket to be taken outside if you line-dry.
:: Children can help you remove the clothing from the dryer (or the line, if they are tall enough!), and place on hangers. Have your kiddos hang up their own clothes, or carry their clothing to their room for you.
:: When it is time to fold, children can help fold towels, washcloths, socks, underwear, pajamas, etc. If you fold your tee shirts, they can help with that, too! Children can also carry these items to the dresser, linen closet, or bathroom to be put away. My girls LOVE carrying their towels and washcloths to the bathroom for me!
As with everything, remember to have patience. Little hands do not move as quickly as ours, and our children also have not had as much “practice” as we have.
Also remember that in doing this early on, we will teach our children to respect their things, appreciate what they have, and to learn how to take care of our home. I feel that everyone in the family should help out in whatever way they are capable. And, working together is fun!
How do your children help with the laundry? What are their “tasks” on laundry day?
photo by: samantha jade
Leave a Reply