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Home › Articles › Family › Helping Hands

Helping Hands

Chores for Little Helpers

By Tice Swackhamer

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Realistically, your beds haven't had that perfectly-made look since your first child was born, so why worry about that now? A toddler can bring up the corners, press down the wrinkles and tuck in the unseemly overhangs with a fair amount of skill. Whatever you do, let her arrange the pillows – and resist the temptation to straighten them out. When you walk through the bedroom later, those crooked pillows will make you smile.

Dusting
It takes only a small investment to purchase a feather duster, and kids love them – they tickle, they're different and they work. Designate the areas that need cleaning and any that are off limits. Since the feather duster allows your child to extend his reach, make sure he knows what not to touch. Or simply remove any valuables. You want him to dust under them anyway, right?

Sweeping/Vacuuming
Most toddlers can't handle a large vacuum cleaner. As for brooms, more dirt ends up on the chairs and countertops than in the dustpan. To combat clumsiness, let your child use a hand-held vacuum, or better yet, a lightweight rechargeable upright. These are great on carpets and bare floors and actually accomplish something. You can sweep the dirt into piles for her and let her tackle the carpets on her own. You may find yourself taking the heavy artillery out far less often.


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