Mini Maids

Toddlers love to "clean." It is so sad that this trait usually disapears by the time they are old enough to be productive at it! ;-) It is still good to encourage this clean behavior, but you don't want them handling any chemical cleaners. Luckily they will be just as satisfied with a clean spray bottle (new and not previously used for chemical cleaners) filled with water and a rag. Set them up in front of some low level windows and let them go crazy. A word to wise, though. I discovered that my 3 year old son could spray out all of the water of an entire bottle in about 2 minutes flat - drenching anything in his path, even electronic equipment, much to my dismay!

While we are on the subject of cleaning, I should mention chores. Even a child as young as 2 years old can and should have regular chores. When the are small, most of their chores revolve around taking care of themselves like brushing teeth, combing hair, helping to dress themselves. It is also good to develop their habit of taking care of their environment, too. They can pick up toys and place them in a basket, help make their bed, even help set the table (more on that later). I can tell you from experience that it is easier to train a young child in good habits than an older one.