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Many children hate anything having to do with cleaning. The simple question, 'Is your room clean?' can elicit a creative medley of groans, sighs, and excuses. Here are a few ideas to make cleaning time less tedious and more productive for you and your children.

Fun and excitement are the keys to getting your child's attention. For a quick clean up, set a timer for a short amount of time (5 minutes is good) and have everyone, parents included, focus solely on cleaning for this time. As fast as possible, pick up anything lying about and put it away. The short time is not too long for little attention spans. The fast pace is exciting to even young children and they will want to help. In this time you can eliminate a lot of clutter and the results are immediately apparent!

Find fun tools to help with cleaning. Kids love to use anything new and different! Magic Erasers are easy and versatile. Try a squeegee (like the windshield washer at the gas station) after showering or when washing windows. There are microfiber gloves available that can be used to dust with. Dryer sheets can be used for all sorts of things. Get an apron (or make one) for them to wear while cleaning and cooking or give them a little caddy to carry around with a duster and other nonhazardous cleaning supplies.

Set the example. Little boys and girls will want to do whatever you are doing. Let them help dust, sweep, or wash the dishes. It may take a little extra time, and you may have to redo the job sometimes, but it makes them feel good about helping. Try giving titles for their jobs to make them feel important, such as 'Chef's Assistant' while cooking, and make up songs about the job they are doing.

A good attitude, a little excitement and creative planning go a long way.

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