How to Create a Back-to-School Cleaning Routine for Kids

by Amy Sardone on Oct 11, 2024
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    As summer winds down and the new school year approaches, it’s time to prepare your kids not just for their classes, but also for maintaining a clean and organized living space. A back-to-school cleaning routine can help kids develop good habits, reduce stress, and make their daily lives smoother. As the owner of Speed Cleaning, I’m excited to share some practical tips to get your children on the right track for the school year ahead.

    Establish a Daily Cleaning Schedule

    The first step to an effective cleaning routine is creating a daily cleaning schedule that follows the Speed Cleaning principles. Involve your kids in the process—let them have a say in what tasks they find manageable and what times work best for them. Start with a few simple Speed Cleaning tasks, such as making their bed, putting away their school supplies, and tidying up their rooms before bedtime. Encourage them to stick to this routine every day, reinforcing the idea that cleaning can be quick and efficient.

    Make Cleaning Fun 

    Cleaning doesn’t have to be a chore! Turn it into a fun activity by incorporating music, games, or even friendly competitions. Create a cleaning playlist and let your kids dance and sing while they tidy up. You can also set a timer and challenge them to complete their cleaning tasks using the Speed Cleaning method before it goes off. This approach can make cleaning more enjoyable and less daunting, turning a mundane task into a fun family bonding experience.

    Organize Supplies Together

    Before the school year starts, take time to declutter and organize school supplies together, following the Speed Cleaning technique of “a place for everything.” Go through their backpacks, desk drawers, and shelves to determine what’s needed and what can be tossed. Encourage your children to keep only the items that they will use this year and donate any unused or excess supplies. Label storage bins or drawers to create designated spaces for school materials, art supplies, and other items. This will help your kids know where everything belongs, making it easier for them to put things away after using them.

    Incorporate Weekly Deep Cleaning Tasks

    In addition to daily cleaning routines, establish a weekly deep cleaning task list. Assign age-appropriate tasks such as vacuuming, dusting, or washing their bed linens. Rotate responsibilities each week to give your kids the opportunity to tackle different areas of their space. The Speed Cleaning method emphasizes efficiency, so teach your children to clean in a systematic way—starting from the top of a room and working downwards to avoid having to clean the same area twice. This not only keeps their environment tidy but also teaches them valuable life skills that will serve them well as they grow.

    Lead by Example 

    Children learn by observing their parents, so make sure to set a good example by applying the Speed Cleaning method in your own cleaning routines. Show your kids how you maintain cleanliness in your home, such as in your home office or common areas. Share your cleaning strategies and involve them in family cleaning days. When they see you prioritizing cleanliness and organization using the Speed Cleaning techniques, they are more likely to adopt those behaviors themselves.

    Create a Reward System

    Finally, consider implementing a reward system to incentivize your kids for sticking to their cleaning routines. This could be a simple sticker chart or a more elaborate system that leads to a small reward for consistent effort. Positive reinforcement encourages kids to take pride in their responsibilities and motivates them to keep their spaces clean.

    Getting your kids into a great new cleaning routine just in time for school will set them up for success. By establishing daily and weekly tasks with the Speed Cleaning method, making cleaning enjoyable, and leading by example, you’ll instill lifelong habits that promote organization and cleanliness. As you gear up for the school year, remember that a clean space leads to a clear mind, allowing your children to focus on their studies and enjoy their time in school. Let’s make this school year the best one yet!

    Happy Cleaning!

    Amy Sardone, PhD
    Owner/CEO

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