As a mom, I feel like I am constantly trying to figure out how to efficiently run a household, make sure there is food in the fridge, do all of the school events and remember that I do have a spouse to spend time with too. For some, when life gets busy, housework is ignored. I get it, we are all trying to do what we can and there is always the saying “Cleaning can wait until tomorrow … my kids are little and lovable” or something like that.
There is truth in that and if that works for you, live your life! For me, and I am guessing a few other parents out there, my anxiety only calms when I am in a clean environment. This means, clutter is down to a minimal, dishes are done and there are wide open spaces in my house. For years, after work and on weekends, I did this on my own. This was my therapy of sorts; I would clean and that is all I felt like I was doing.
A couple of years ago, we started 30 minute chore time. My family of four sets a timer for 30 minutes (sometimes longer depending on what we need to do but no more than an hour), turn on some music, and get to cleaning. My kids are given three chores to get done. When those are finished, they come back for their next chore. My spouse and I are also cleaning during this time. I realized that in 30 minutes, our family of four can do what I can do in two hours!
This has made our home happier and our time together better. We spe
nd more time together, our house is cleaner and I find that my kids are more appreciative of our clean home. When they are participating in what we are cleaning, they tend to pick up after themselves more during the week.
Family chore time has taught my kids some responsibility, given me some time by myself and with my spouse, and made our house a happier home.
Do you think this could help your family? Give it a try this weekend! Worst case, you will have the ultimate dance party with your kids!
