As a mom I find myself struggling to find a balance between spending quality time with the kids and getting things done around the house. More often than not I’m getting stuff done at the expense of my kids. Lately I’ve been trying to find ways to have fun with my kids but still get things done so my house doesn’t look like a war zone.
One morning after breakfast I was unloading the dishwasher. My 3.5 year old daughter runs up and says “can I help?”
I love and hate that question.
I love it because any offers of help are sincerely appreciated.
I hate it because let’s be honest: most times a 3 year old’s “help” is more of a hindrance. Am I right?!?
Knowing that her heart is in the right place, I have to focus and find a way she can help that will be beneficial for both of us.
Then I have a great idea. More like God giving me a great idea.
Play the sorting game with her. Any boring task made into a game is fun for a 3 year old.
I took the silverware out of the dishwasher and the silverware tray out of the drawer. I explained where each piece goes and asked if she could sort it for me. She excitedly started her “game” as I happily put the rest of the dishes away knowing that we were both having fun while getting something done.
She liked it so much she dumped out more silverware and started sorting again. And again. And again.
Dishes being put away while daughter plays a game = two birds with one stone.
Score!
How do you teach your young children to help around the house? Better yet, how do you get housework done and make sure you have enough time with the kids? I’d love to hear what you think!
This post linked to It’s Overflowing.