Spring is a time of renewal and growth. And that applies to your home as well as your life. If you’re like most people, spring cleaning is not exactly something you look forward to. But with all hands on deck, your job can be more pleasant–and dare we say enjoyable! Here 
are a few tips for a stress-free family cleaning session:
- First, make sure the assigned day is open for everyone involved. Then write it on your calendar, and/or send electronic invitations. Make it clear everyone is expected to be there, at least for part of the time.
- Music makes everything more fun! Invite your family to share their favorite music. Take tune requests so everyone feels included. You might even give out a small prize for the best cleaning music.
- Get organized in advance. Careful planning will ensure there are no last-minute trips to the store. Go through your cleaning supplies and pitch any that have seen better days. Restock if necessary.
- Just as music can enhance the experience, food can be an incentive. Have some favorite snacks and drinks on hand for break times.
- Make sure chores are age appropriate. Don’t expect a kid to be able to have the attention or physical strength to do the work of an adult. Sorting safe items can be good for preschool and school-age children. Make it into a game to help keep them engaged.
- Get competitive. You might consider making the cleanup into a contest. Divide into teams with equal workloads and reward the winner with candy or a trinket.
- Stay focused. Turn off the ringers to your phones, and let extended family and friends know you’ll be occupied that day. Nothing disrupts flow like a phone call.
- Reward a job well done. Pizza night, anyone? A night out at a local sporting event? The possibilities are endless!
Here’s to a cleaner house, and a saner you!