Let's start with a simple, but highly desired skill for all mothers: how to get a child to clean up their toys themselves? And is it possible to teach this as early as possible?
It is possible and necessary. And the earlier, the better.
Maria Montessori suggests teaching cleaning through play. It is through play that young children master all important skills.
How does it work? You ask your child questions about the different "sleeping spots" for their toys. For example: "Where will your train sleep tonight? Maybe on the chandelier?" And you wait for an answer. If the child agrees, discuss it together: perhaps the train won't be comfortable on the chandelier – it's not a bird, it might fall. Then the child will start making suggestions themselves. The main thing is to gently guide them to the place where the toys are kept, so they can put their train there themselves.
It's important to play this game daily, every time it's time to clean up. As the child remembers, the number of toys "sent to bed" can be increased. And it's essential that the child puts them away themselves.
After a while, they will learn where to put everything and will gladly help you with cleaning. Your presence and encouragement are important: praise the child with words for their actions. Over time, the skill will improve, and the association with pleasant emotions will remain in their memory.
And a note about the environment that helps with cleaning. A young child's coordination is not yet like an adult's: it's difficult for them to put toys into drawers or a cabinet with hinged doors. Therefore, prepare convenient storage spaces – simple colorful plastic buckets, wide baskets, or even cardboard boxes, beautifully decorated to match the interior.
Happy cleaning!
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