Children can honestly begin to have responsibility for tasks around the house as early as 3. Surprised? You should know that the average child has command of 200+ words. Many more than NO!
One of the first tasks they can assume is picking up their toys after play. This requires you, the parent, to have a place for those toys that is accessible and established. A box, bin, basket or whatever located in a common area is perfect.
By making it a little game you toddler will join in readily. The simple direction of " please pick up your toys and put them away" is not enough. Of course, you need to demonstrate what you expect a few times to help the child understand.
For example, tell you child that you have a new game called 'Toy Pile" or whatever you want to call it. In this case, Mr. Clean needs your help to build a toy pile to stop Dirty Dan. Dirty Dan can't come if everything is in order. So make it a timed event and quickly pick up and store the toys. Talk along the way to your child about being fast and efficient. Such statements as " Hurry dear, Dirty Dan is coming. Mr. Clean is depending on us to help him. Baby you are doing such a good job stacking your toys. Mr. Clean will be so happy. Mom is glad you are so smart and strong and can move so fast."
Remember to praise and show appreciate for a job well done. Kids really want to make us happy at that age so most will easily repeat the pattern. This can be extended to their rooms as well. Again be sure to have a specific place to put items.
You will enjoy having this transferred to your child and seeing how dedicated each becomes. They will mimic this by telling you to put your toys away, and instruct play dates to do the same. I did nothing but chuckle at this behavior.
Parenting - the happiest job you'll ever have!
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