130 HAWAII PARENT May/June 2025 start off small. Doing the dishes right after a meal or only doing laundry when you know you’ll have time to fold it after can prevent piles from forming. It may be ideal to include children in this practice as well. Distributing the task can be easier on everyone and create a clean environment that all family members can enjoy. In time, you and your family will be so accustomed to certain tasks that keeping your respective areas clean and tidy will be second nature. The Long-Term Benefits of Decluttering There are long-term benefits to you and your family in keeping your living environment clean. Maintaining a clean and organized environment reduces stress and helps to establish good habits. Regularly going through your belongings not only frees up physical space in your home but space in your mind. simply telling them to get certain tasks done, you could formulate a weekly chart of “who does what” around the house. This way, they can actually see the big picture of how the house must be kept tidy. Chore boards could be an elaborate poster with drawings or a to-do list whiteboard where your child is excited to use the dry erase marker. You could even include rewards such as stickers, snacks, or extra screen time. It doesn’t have to be complicated for your child to enjoy it. Have fun and let your child in on the design and decorating process! Consistency is Key Like most things, consistency is key. At first, it may be difficult to keep a routine, especially when there’s a struggle to find the time or motivation. Still, working towards a set system can be extremely beneficial. If you don’t have a cleaning system for your home already in place, “Distributing the task can be easier on everyone, and create a clean environment that all family members can enjoy” With a little creativity, even chores can become fun family activities!
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