How to get toddlers to participate in cleaning up?

Question

It’s getting overwhelming and my usual tactics are coming up completely useless. I have a 4.5yo and 20mo and nanny 2 3yos. I know my younger son is still learning but the older kids just straight don’t listen. Even if I give them a number equal with their age to clean up, a circle as big as their arms can reach from where they are sitting etc. and I am cleaning alll freaking day and still struggling so hard to keep everything semi in order. They ALL just keep playing and pull out more toys. I’m going freaking nuts and getting really impatient and frustrated with this. If they can pull them out they can put them away they are ABLE and within reason, just participation.

Answer

I would put some of the toys away where they are unable to get them til they are willing to help pick up . I usually try and make it a game  and see who can pick up the fastest or something like that .

Answer

It helps when I give my kids specific things to clean up. Like “clean up the legos,” and when that’s done “clean up the crayons” and so forth. If I just tell them to clean up a room they’re overwhelmed and have no idea where to start.

Answer

I have a two year old. When she asks to do an activity, I tell her she has to clean up her current mess first. That usually motivates her. Or I bribe her with a sticker. We also sing a song while we clean up.

Answer

At my son’s daycare they do cleanup before the next transition and play/sing a clean up song. For example, before they go outside, before afternoon snack, etc. they say, “Before we go outside, it’s time to clean up!” And play the song. That way they’re not interrupting play but they still pack up regularly throughout the day.

Answer

Are you talking cleaning up on their own or just in general?

How to get toddlers to participate in cleaning up?

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