It can be hard getting children to tidy up. Maybe try this....it may just help!

TIDY-UP TIME

Helping toddlers and infants to learn to tidy

Keep it SIMPLE SHORT FUN

1. MAKE IT EASY

Set up a few clear spots for toys:

• Soft toys

• Cars

• Building toys

• Craft supplies

• Books

Using pictures on boxes can really help!

2. ONE JOB AT A TIME

Instead of saying:

“Go and tidy your room.”

Try this approach:

“Let’s put all the cars away.”

Then follow up with:

“Now let's put the blocks away.”

Focusing on one small task makes it much easier.

3. DO IT TOGETHER

Little ones often need assistance.

Say something like:

“You put the toys in the box and I'll help you find them.”

The goal is to create a habit, not to achieve perfection.

4. MAKE IT A GAME

Consider these fun ideas:

• Sing a tidy up song

• Use a 2 to 5 minute timer

• “Can we find all the red toys?”

• “Let's race the cars back to their garage!”

Fun is much more effective than nagging.

5. HAVE A REGULAR TIME

Pick a consistent time each day for tidying up.

For example:

BEFORE DINNER → TIDY TOYS

A short regular routine is easier than waiting until everything is scattered everywhere.

6. TRY “ONE OUT ONE AWAY”

Whenever possible:

Finished with the train? Put it away before getting the dinosaurs out.

This helps prevent the BIG MESS from accumulating.

7. EVERYONE HELPS

The 5 year old shouldn't have to clean up after the 3 year old.

Instead encourage:

“Everyone tidies their own toys and we help each other.”

The older child can take on the role of the “tidy-up helper.”

IF THEY REFUSE...

Stay calm and patient.

Try saying:

“I know you don't want to tidy. It’s tidy-up time and I’ll help you get started.”

Then begin with them.

Aim for progress not perfection.

The goal is:

HELP PRACTISE REPEAT

Not:

PERFECTLY TIDY HOUSE

REMEMBER

KEEP IT:

SHORT SIMPLE PREDICTABLE PLAYFUL

Small steps build big habits.

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