How to Keep the House Clean With Kids Home for Summer!
It is summertime, which means the kids are home from school. No more waking up early and taking the kids to school, just lazy days, right? Well, factor in the fact that kids are home ALL. THE. TIME. and thus create more of a mess, what is a stay at home parent to do?
Checklists!
It is time to enlist the help of the kids and other family members in your house. You for sure should not have to clean the house yourself. After all, you did not get it dirty by yourself! My suggestion is to set clear expectations and make daily checklists. I do that with the boys, so they can clearly see what is expected of them, when they need to do it, and they cannot have video game time until their tasks are complete.
And it's not just me. Professional cleaning services like Bear Bros Cleaning use them extensively: "Checklists for cleaning are a game-changer. They help keep everyone on track and ensure nothing is overlooked, making cleaning more efficient and a little less stress-free."
These printable checklists are super easy to use and once your family gets in a routine, it will become much easier. I like the fact that these are not chore lists, but to do lists, where you can add whatever needs to be done and customize it. If our oldest son needs to practice trumpet, take out the trash, and write a letter, I write it down. He is learning to take responsibility and do what he needs to do first so he can relax and have fun after everything is complete!
Get Help with a Robot Vacuum
One thing that is helpful for any family is a Robot Vacuum. It just gives you an extra hand by taking away one of the many chores we have!
Give Yourself Grace!
Know that most homes that are lived in and do not have a maid cleaning them are cluttered, dirty, and well...lived in! Sometimes just having the floor cleaned of crumbs makes me feel better (which is why the robot vacuum is so helpful!) If that laundry is taunting you from the couch, move it to a closet until someone can fold it. If the dishes are dirty in the sink, run some soapy water and tell yourself that they're "soaking." It is completely okay to have clutter in your home. Give yourself grace and know that we are all just doing the best that we can! And enjoy your summer with your family!!!
Good luck and try to relax!
