In today’s fast-paced world, keeping our homes clean and organized can feel like a herculean task. But did you know that it can be a fun, family-bonding activity that also teaches your kids important life skills? Involving kids in decluttering tasks not only helps in maintaining a tidy home but also fosters a sense of responsibility, discipline, and ownership in them.
Let’s explore 15 declutter tasks that your kids can help with, making clean-up time more efficient and enjoyable!
1. Sorting Toys
One of the most common cluttered areas in a house with kids is the playroom or their toy corner. Having your kids sort their toys is a great way to get them involved in decluttering. This task can be made fun by turning it into a game where kids categorize toys based on type, color, or size.
In this process, kids learn how to categorize and prioritize, which are valuable skills. They can also identify toys that they no longer use or need, which can be donated or sold. This teaches them the importance of sharing and the concept of reusing and recycling.
2. Organizing Books
Books can quickly pile up and create clutter. Kids can help organize books by size, author, or genres. This task encourages them to handle books carefully and appreciate the value of literature.
Organizing books also gives your child a chance to revisit old favorites and discover new ones. It may even spark a reading session, fostering a love for reading. It’s also an excellent opportunity to discuss the importance of returning things to their proper place after using them.
3. Cleaning Their Room
While this might seem like an obvious task, it’s crucial in teaching kids responsibility and ownership of their space. Kids can help in making their beds, putting away toys, and organizing their closets.
Not only does this help keep their room clean and tidy, but it also gives them a sense of accomplishment. It’s important to appreciate their efforts and make them understand that maintaining cleanliness is a team effort.
4. Sorting Clothes
Sorting clothes can be a fun and educational task for kids. They can sort them by color, type (pants, shirts, etc.), or even by season. This task not only helps in decluttering the wardrobe but also teaches kids how to take care of their clothes.
While sorting, they can also identify clothes that no longer fit or are worn out. These clothes can be donated, sold, or recycled, teaching them the value of sharing and sustainable living.
5. Organizing School Supplies
School supplies can get messy and scattered around the house. Involve your kids in organizing their school supplies by categorizing them — notebooks, pencils, colors, etc.
This task not only helps in decluttering but also makes them responsible for their belongings. It can also improve their productivity as they can easily find their supplies when needed.
6. Sorting and Storing Seasonal Items
Seasonal items like holiday decorations, winter clothing, or beach gear can create clutter. Kids can help sort these items and store them properly until the next season.
This task teaches them the concept of seasonal rotation and the importance of keeping things organized. It also gives them a sense of time, as they learn to associate certain items with different times of the year.
7. Cleaning Up After Meals
Cleaning up after meals is a simple task that kids can help with. They can clear the table, put dishes in the dishwasher, or even wipe the table clean.
This task teaches them responsibility and the importance of contributing to household chores. It also fosters a sense of teamwork and cooperation.
8. Sorting Socks
Sorting socks can be a fun and engaging task for kids. They can match socks by color or pattern, and it’s a great way to improve their matching and sorting skills.
This task not only helps in decluttering the laundry but also makes the process of finding matching socks easier and quicker.
9. Organizing the Shoe Rack
The shoe rack can often become cluttered with mismatched and outgrown shoes. Kids can help organize the shoe rack by pairing shoes and identifying those that no longer fit.
This task not only keeps the shoe rack tidy but also teaches kids the importance of maintaining their belongings in good condition.
10. Sorting Craft Supplies
Craft supplies can easily create clutter. Kids can sort these supplies into different categories like paints, brushes, papers, etc.
This task not only helps in organizing craft supplies but also promotes creativity and resourcefulness in kids. They can also identify supplies that need to be replenished.
11. Cleaning the Yard
Cleaning the yard can be a fun outdoor activity for kids. They can pick up toys, leaves, or trash and help in maintaining a clean and inviting yard.
This task not only contributes to the cleanliness of the house but also fosters a love for nature and outdoor activities.
12. Organizing the Bathroom
Kids can help in keeping the bathroom organized by putting away their bath toys, arranging toiletries, and even wiping the counters.
This task teaches them the importance of cleanliness and hygiene. It also makes them responsible for their belongings.
13. Sorting Grocery Items
Sorting grocery items can be an educational task for kids. They can categorize items based on their type like vegetables, canned goods, dairy products, etc.
This task not only helps in organizing the kitchen but also teaches kids about different food items and their importance.
14. Organizing the Garage
While the garage may seem like a daunting place, kids can help in simple tasks like sorting tools, sports equipment, or gardening supplies.
This task not only helps in decluttering the garage but also gives kids a sense of responsibility and accomplishment.
15. Sorting Photos
Photos can often pile up and create clutter. Kids can help sort photos by date, event, or family members. They can even help in creating photo albums or frames.
This task not only organizes photos but also provides a great opportunity for kids to learn about their family history and cherish memories.
