Everyone is familiar with the concept that children learn what they live - when it comes to manners and education. This also applies to home environments. If a child lives in chaos they will perpetuate it as an adult (unless they make a strong stand and overcome that - which doesn't happen very often). If a child lives in an organized, clean environment they will grow up and do the same.


It is important when we are rearing our children that we involve them in the process - because, like it or not, they are involved in the outcome - both now and in the future. If you want your children to be good readers, you read to them as frequently as you can, right? So, if you want your children to be clean and organized you have to live in a clean and organized home environment and then have expectations that they will help.


I am a firm believer that children need to be taught the upkeep and care of homes. Each age should be responsible for different things and by the time they are 18 (and ready to move out and be on their own) they will have a working knowledge of what it takes to maintain and keep their environment tidy. This includes being able to work with others, having roommate situations, etc. It is important that we as adults teach this to them.


There are many examples of people who believe in the concept of children learning what they live. There are lots of resources that can help you be organized and keep up on your daily cleaning tasks. Whatever you choose to use - involve your children. Set the example for them and encourage them to do the same. All it takes is a little love and encouragement and your children can and will flourish with their cleaning responsibilities. I believe that deep inside (sometimes way, way, way deep inside!) they yearn to be responsible and to be allowed to live in a organized environment with rules that are easy to follow and expectations that are high but attainable.


Every family has their own priorities and goals and values. Those are the things that should be readily passed down to the next generation. Hopefully being clean and orderly is one of the values that you can pass along to your children! Good luck!


Make it a great one!