Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be a chore reserved for adults; it can be a great opportunity to spend time together as a family while teaching kids valuable life skills. With a little creativity, spring cleaning with kids can turn into an activity they’ll actually enjoy.
1. Turn cleaning into a game
Children are more likely to participate when tasks feel like play. Use these game-based ideas for spring cleaning with kids:
- Create a point system: five toys put away earn a star, and stars can be exchanged for choosing the next family movie night.
- Set a timer and challenge them to “beat the clock” by picking up toys or sort out items before the buzzer sounds.
2. Make music part of the routine
Music can instantly change the mood of a room. Build a family playlist filled with upbeat songs, and let each child add their favourites. Crank up the volume and have a dance break while folding laundry or wiping down tables. Suddenly, dusting doesn’t seem so dull.
3. Give them choices and responsibility
Kids are more cooperative when they feel a sense of ownership. Offer them two or three small tasks and let them pick which to do first, such as:
- Watering plants (see our guide on watering plants for outdoor care).
- Organising books by colour.
- Matching socks.
These moments help them feel trusted and capable while contributing to the household.
4. Make spring cleaning with kids a creative task
Even cleaning can have a creative side. Give younger children a spray bottle filled with water and let them “wash” outdoor windows. Have older kids label storage boxes or create colourful signs for toy bins. Spring cleaning with kids is also a chance to encourage problem-solving, ask them how they’d like to organise their own shelves or drawers.
5. Reward effort, not just results.
Focus on participation rather than perfection. A quick high-five, verbal praise, or a fun snack break goes a long way. This aligns with the principles of our self-care guide on how to reward effort and emotional well-being. Knowing that their efforts matter will keep kids motivated and willing to help in the future.
Teamwork and family fun.
Beyond getting the house in shape, spring cleaning with kids teaches responsibility, teamwork, and the satisfaction of maintaining a tidy space. So this season, don’t shoulder the entire cleaning list yourself. Get the kids involved, make it fun, and turn what’s usually a household task into a family tradition that everyone can look forward to. Book your Sweepsouth clean today!
ALSO SEE: KIDS CLEANING ACTIVITIES – PERFECT FOR THE WINTER BREAK.
