is most effective for your family. While no one said it is going to be fun or easy, obtaining and maintaining a clean and organized house can help you to save time and cut down on chaos at home. After everything is organized, it’s time to make a new house rule: stop the junk at the door. In his book Simplicity Parenting, Kim John Payne says that “too much stuff leads to too many choices.” He goes on to say that Americans love our choices, but when there is too much to choose from, nothing has value. When it comes to buying new toys for your child, choose quality over quantity whenever you can. A magical, well-made toy can be a sacred friend throughout childhood, whereas cheap plastic toys break and frustrate, and will eventually be thrown out anyway. There are endless websites, articles, books, professional organizers, and stores that offer amazing tips to help you declutter and clean your space. Figure out what 112 HAWAII PARENT March/April 2024 Staying organized will be easier if there is a designated place for everything. “Involve your children in establishing permanent homes for their personal items.” TODDLERS: • Put toys away • Feed pets • Wipe up spills PRESCHOOLERS: • Make their bed • Set and clean table • Empty trash cans ELEMENTARY: • Make lunches for school • Sweep floors • Sort and fold laundry • Vacuum PRETEENS: • Do laundry • Run the dishwasher • Make lunches • Clean out the fridge AGE-APPROPRIATE CHORES FOR KIDS
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTcxMjMwNg==