Ah, summer – the season of sunny days, warm breezes, and endless outdoor fun! As the temperature rises, it’s time to embrace the spirit of casual summer dressing. Whether you’re attending summer events, going on a date, or simply enjoying leisurely activities, dressing comfortably and stylishly is the key. In this blog post, I’ve gathered 10 casual summer outfit ideas to inspire your warm weather fashion staples. Let’s dive in and discover the perfect choices for your summer wardrobe.
Let’s start with a timeless classic – the black dress. A little black dress is a must-have in any season, and summer is no exception. Opt for a lightweight, flowy black dress that allows your skin to breathe. You can choose a midi or maxi length depending on your preference. Pair it with strappy sandals or cute espadrilles for an effortlessly chic look. This outfit is perfect for summer parties, casual summer weddings, or even a date night.
Cool and Comfy Tank Top with Denim Shorts
For a laid-back summer vibe, go for a tank top and denim shorts combo. A tank top in a vibrant color or fun print adds a touch of summer flair. Combine it with distressed denim shorts for a relaxed and comfortable outfit. Add a straw hat to protect yourself from the sun while looking stylish. This casual ensemble is ideal for beach days, picnics, or strolling through a local market.
Breezy and Stylish Summer Skirt
Embrace the feminine side of summer fashion with a breezy summer skirt. Choose a flowy, floral-printed skirt that sways with every step. Pair it with a simple crop top for a trendy yet relaxed look. This outfit is perfect for brunch with friends, outdoor concerts, or any casual summer gathering. Don’t forget your favorite sunglasses to complete the look.
Denim Jacket for Cool Summer Evenings
Summer evenings can get a bit chilly, especially if you’re by the beach or in the mountains. A denim jacket is an excellent staple piece to keep you warm while adding a touch of edge to your outfit. Layer it over a cute summer dress or a plain tee and shorts combo. You can also tie it around your waist during the day and throw it on when the sun sets.
A maxi dress is a versatile summer essential that can take you from day to night effortlessly. Choose a lightweight and breathable fabric to stay comfortable throughout the day. Dress it up with some statement jewelry and wedges for a casual summer wedding or date night. For a more relaxed look, pair it with flat sandals and a crossbody bag for summer shopping or sightseeing.
The Playful Denim Overalls
Denim overalls are making a comeback in the summer fashion scene, and it’s easy to see why. They exude a playful and youthful charm that perfectly complements the carefree spirit of summer. Pair your denim overalls with a striped or plain tank top and white sneakers for a cute and casual summer outfit. You can wear this ensemble to outdoor activities, picnics, or even a casual summer party with friends.
Effortless and Trendy Jumpsuit
A jumpsuit is a one-and-done summer outfit that requires minimal effort while making a maximum style statement. Choose a light, breathable fabric and a flattering silhouette. You can go for a solid color or a playful print to suit your mood. Add some platform sandals and a statement necklace to elevate the look for a casual summer date night or a trendy party.
Casual and Chic T-Shirt Dress
A t-shirt dress is the epitome of summer dressing – comfortable, versatile, and effortlessly chic. Opt for a soft and stretchy fabric that allows you to move freely. You can style it with sneakers and a crossbody bag for a day of exploring the city or add some heeled sandals and a cute clutch for a casual summer night out.
Relaxed Boho Vibes with a Kimono
A lightweight kimono is a perfect layering piece for the summer season. It adds a touch of boho flair to any outfit while providing a little extra coverage when needed. Pair it with a tank top and denim shorts for a relaxed boho look. This outfit is great for summer festivals, beach bonfires, or simply hanging out with friends.
Effortless and Chic Romper
Last but not least, the romper is a fun and flirty option for casual summer outfits. Go for a romper in a cheerful print or a bold color to embrace the summer vibes. Accessorize with a wide-brimmed hat and some wedges for a brunch date or a day at the beach.
Summer fashion is all about embracing comfort and style in equal measure. With these 10 casual summer outfit ideas, you’ll have a summer capsule wardrobe ready for any occasion. From cute and breezy dresses to versatile denim pieces, there’s something for everyone’s style preference. So, get ready to soak up the sun and enjoy all the joys that summer dressing brings.
And if you’re interested in exploring more fashion trends, be sure to check out my Evereve Trendsend Box Review which I get quarterly. Happy summer styling!
**Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links**
Hey, lovely readers! As a blogger, I want to be transparent with you about some of the links included in this post. Some of the links are affiliate links, which means that I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through these links.
Running this blog is my little dream come true, and your support means the world to me. By shopping through these affiliate links, you’re helping me keep this blog running and bringing you more exciting content in the future. I genuinely appreciate your support, and it inspires me to continue creating valuable and engaging posts for you.
Remember, clicking on these links and making a purchase won’t cost you anything extra, but it will make a big difference for me. So, if you found some outfit ideas you love and decide to shop through the links, know that you’re making my day brighter and contributing to my passion for sharing some of my favorite things with you.
As a stay-at-home mom, you’ve chosen one of life’s most rewarding paths. But let’s face it, it’s not without its financial challenges. Many of us find ourselves without a personal income, relying solely on our partner’s earnings. Today, I want to share some practical strategies on how stay-at-home moms can successfully save money.
How To Save Money As A Stay At Home Mom: 10 Practical Tips
1. Create a Budget:
One of the most effective ways to manage your finances is by creating a budget. Take some time to list all your monthly expenses and compare them to your household income. This will help you identify areas where you can cut back and save.
2. How To Save Money As A Stay At Home Mom:
Budgeting is key for stay-at-home moms. By setting limits on your spending, you can ensure that you’re making the most of your family’s income. Consider using budgeting apps or spreadsheets to help you track your expenses and stay on target.
3. Comparison Shopping:
Before making any major purchases, always compare prices from different retailers. Look for sales, discounts, and coupons to get the best deals. This simple habit can save you a significant amount of money over time.
4. Minimize Dining Out:
Eating out can quickly add up and drain your finances. Instead, try to cook at home as much as possible. Not only is it healthier, but it’s also much cheaper. Plan your meals in advance and make use of leftovers to reduce waste.
5. Energy Conservation:
Conserving energy not only helps the environment but also saves you money on utility bills. Turn off lights when not in use, unplug electronics, and invest in energy-efficient appliances to lower your energy consumption.
6. Meal Prepping:
Meal prepping is a lifesaver for busy moms. Spend some time each week preparing meals in advance and storing them in the fridge or freezer. Not only does this save you time during the week, but it also prevents you from ordering takeout on busy nights.
7. DIYing:
Get creative and tackle household projects yourself instead of hiring someone else to do it. Whether it’s home repairs, gardening, or crafting, DIYing can save you a significant amount of money.
8. Invest Wisely: add in affiliate link and the blog post link
Consider investing some of your savings to grow your wealth over time. Platforms like Webull offer user-friendly investment options that are perfect for beginners. Start small and gradually increase your investments as you become more comfortable.
9. Use Reusable Water Bottles:
Invest in reusable water bottles for the whole family instead of buying single-use plastic bottles. Not only is this better for the environment, but it also saves you money in the long run.
10. Opt for Store Brands:
When grocery shopping, opt for store brands instead of name brands. In many cases, the quality is comparable, but the price is significantly lower. You’ll be surprised at how much you can save by making this simple switch.
In conclusion, being a stay-at-home mom doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice financial stability. By implementing these tips and making smart choices, you can successfully save money and contribute to your family’s financial well-being.
Don’t forget, if you’re interested in learning more about investing as a stay-at-home mom, check out my post on [how to become a mom influencer](https://www.xajohnson.com/web-stories/how-to-be-a-mom-influencer/) for some valuable insights.
Remember, every penny saved is a penny earned. Happy saving!
As a parent of a young athlete, finding nutritious and delicious snack and dinner options can be a challenging task. Trader Joe’s, with its wide selection of high-quality products, offers an array of choices that cater to your child’s athletic needs. Oftentimes, if you have athletes, you know eating can be a challenge to have at the table, and for a long time, so many of these items work for on the go, are quick, and portable. In this blog post, we will explore ten low-sugar snack and dinner options available at Trader Joe’s that will keep your young athletes fueled and energized. I’ve created a PDF download for you to reference the next time you go to Trader Joe’s. You can download or save to Pinterest for quick and easy access!
Trader Joe’s: Healthy Snack and Dinner Options for Athlete Kids with Low Sugar
1. Organic Mini Cheese Sandwich Crackers:
These bite-sized crackers are made with organic ingredients and contain a creamy cheese filling. They are a perfect on-the-go snack that provides protein and whole grains without excessive sugar.
2. Organic Fruit Wraps:
Trader Joe’s Organic Fruit Wraps are made from real fruit purees and offer a tasty alternative to sugary fruit snacks. These portable snacks are a great source of vitamins and fiber for your young athlete.
3. Chickenless Crispy Tenders:
For a protein-packed snack or dinner option, Trader Joe’s Chickenless Crispy Tenders are a winner. Made with plant-based protein, these tenders are flavorful, crispy, and low in sugar.
4. Organic Brown Rice Cakes:
Trader Joe’s Organic Brown Rice Cakes are a versatile snack that can be enjoyed plain or topped with healthy spreads like almond butter or hummus. They are gluten-free and provide a satisfying crunch without added sugars.
5. Oven-Baked Cheese Bites:
These crunchy cheese bites are made with real cheese and baked to perfection. With no added sugars, they make a great post-workout snack that offers protein and calcium.
6. Turkey Meatballs:
Trader Joe’s Turkey Meatballs are a lean and protein-rich option for a quick and easy dinner. Made with minimally processed turkey, these meatballs are flavorful and low in sugar.
7. Frozen Berries:
Trader Joe’s offers a wide variety of frozen berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries. These antioxidant-rich fruits are packed with vitamins and minerals, and their natural sugars provide a quick energy boost for athletes.
8. Organic Apple Sauce Crushers:
Made with organic apples and no added sugars, Trader Joe’s Apple Sauce Crushers are a convenient and mess-free snack option for busy athletes. They come in individual squeeze pouches and provide a natural source of energy.
9. Organic Grass-Fed Beef Jerky:
Trader Joe’s offers Organic Grass-Fed Beef Jerky that is free from artificial preservatives and low in sugar. Packed with protein, it’s a satisfying snack for your athletic child.
10. Fresh Fruit and Organic Pitted Medjool Dates:
Trader Joe’s also provides a wide variety of fresh fruits, such as bananas, oranges, and apples. These fruits are naturally sweet and provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber to support your child’s energy needs. Additionally, Organic Pitted Medjool Dates are a nutrient-dense option rich in natural sugars, fiber, and potassium. They make a delicious and energy-packed snack that can fuel young athletes that can be taken on the go and eaten quickly as a snack or between practices.
Trader Joe’s offers a wide variety of low-sugar snack and dinner options that are perfect for parents of young athletes. From organic fruit wraps to lean protein sources and wholesome snacks, their products provide the nutrition and energy necessary to support your child’s active lifestyle. By incorporating these nutritious options into your child’s diet, including frozen berries, fresh fruits, and organic pitted Medjool dates, you can ensure they stay fueled, healthy, and ready to perform their best on and off the field. If you are looking for a list of essential foods you can get from Trader Joe’s for the whole family, be sure to check out this blog post.
Backpacking is more than just a way to explore nature; it’s a journey of discovery, a chance to bond with loved ones, and an opportunity to instill a love for the outdoors in the next generation. As a parent, hitting the trails with your kids can be both exhilarating and challenging. But fear not, because in this post, we’ll delve into the tips and essential items for a successful family backpacking adventure.
Tips and Essentials for Backpacking With Kids
Backpacking with kids is an entirely different ball game compared to trekking with adults. It’s a mix of excitement, unpredictability, and endless possibilities. Planning ahead and being prepared can make all the difference in turning your family backpacking trip into a memorable experience.
8 Best Tips for Backpacking With Kids
1. Start Small and Gradually Increase Difficulty:
Begin with shorter day hikes and overnight trips to get your kids accustomed to the backpacking experience. As they grow more comfortable, gradually increase the length and difficulty of your adventures.
2. Involve Kids in Trip Planning:
Let your little adventurers have a say in choosing the destination, planning the route, and packing their gear. This not only empowers them but also increases their excitement for the trip.
3. Emphasize Safety:
Teach your kids basic outdoor safety rules such as staying on the trail, keeping hydrated, and identifying dangerous plants or animals. Consider investing in GPS devices or emergency communication tools for added peace of mind.
4. Pack Plenty of Snacks:
Hungry kids are unhappy kids, so be sure to pack a variety of nutritious snacks like granola bars, dried fruits, and trail mix. Don’t forget to include their favorite treats to keep morale high on the trail.
5. Dress for Success:
Layering is key, especially when venturing into varying climates or unpredictable weather. Pack lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing, waterproof jackets, and sturdy footwear to keep your family comfortable and protected.
6. Keep Them Entertained:
Plan fun activities like scavenger hunts, nature bingo, or storytelling sessions to keep boredom at bay during breaks or downtime at the campsite. A deck of cards or a lightweight board game can also provide hours of entertainment.
7. Foster Independence:
Encourage your kids to take on age-appropriate tasks such as setting up camp, filtering water, or helping with meal preparation. Not only does this lighten your load, but it also teaches valuable life skills and fosters independence.
8. Leave No Trace:
Instill a respect for nature by practicing Leave No Trace principles. Teach your kids the importance of packing out trash, staying on designated trails, and minimizing their impact on the environment.
Invest in lightweight, durable backpacks specifically designed for kids. These packs should have adjustable straps, padded hip belts, and enough capacity to carry their essentials without overloading them.
Hydration is key, especially during outdoor adventures. Equip each child with their own water bottle or hydration bladder to ensure they stay hydrated throughout the trip.
Be prepared for minor bumps, scrapes, and insect bites with a comprehensive first aid kit. Include essentials like adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and any necessary medications.
4. Lightweight Sleeping Bags:
Choose sleeping bags specifically designed for kids that are lightweight, compact, and suitable for the expected weather conditions. Look for models with adjustable lengths to accommodate growth spurts.
5. Headlamps or Flashlights:
Ensure each child has their own reliable light source for navigating around the campsite or taking nighttime bathroom trips. Opt for lightweight, durable headlamps or compact flashlights with long battery life.
6. Whistle and Mirror:
Teach your kids how to use a whistle and mirror as signaling devices in case of emergencies. Attach these items to their backpacks for easy access.
7. Portable Camping Stove:
Prepare hot meals and beverages on the trail with a lightweight, portable camping stove. Choose models that are easy to use and pack efficiently in your backpack.
8. Insulated Water Bladders:
Keep water readily accessible and insulated from extreme temperatures with hydration bladders equipped with an insulated sleeve. This ensures that your kids have access to clean, refreshing water throughout the day.
9. Navigation Tools:
Equip each child with a map, compass, or GPS device (if age-appropriate) to help them learn navigation skills and stay oriented on the trail.
10. Emergency Shelter:
Pack a lightweight emergency shelter such as a space blanket or a compact tent in case you need to seek refuge from inclement weather or unexpected delays on the trail.
11. Solar Generators:
In addition to the essential items mentioned above, consider adding a solar generator to your family backpacking arsenal. Solar generators harness the power of the sun to generate electricity, providing a reliable source of energy for charging electronic devices, powering lights, or running small appliances while off the grid. This eco-friendly solution ensures that you can stay connected and powered up even in remote locations, offering added peace of mind during your outdoor adventures. With a solar generator in tow, you can enjoy the convenience of modern technology without relying on traditional power sources, making it a valuable addition to any family backpacking trip.
Backpacking with kids is a rewarding experience that offers countless opportunities for adventure, learning, and bonding as a family. By following these tips and packing the essential items, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on an unforgettable journey into the great outdoors with your little explorers. So grab your gear, hit the trails, and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Don’t forget to check out these helpful resources on raising positive kids and finding experience gifts for children to complement your family backpacking adventures:
Trader Joe’s is a beloved grocery store that has been around for several decades, offering a unique and enjoyable shopping experience. Known for their high-quality products, affordable prices, and friendly staff, Trader Joe’s has become a go-to destination for many shoppers. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the wonders of Trader Joe’s and share a comprehensive grocery haul of essential items you can find at this popular store.
30 Item Trader Joe’s Grocery Haul For Essentials
Trader Joe’s: A Fun and Budget-Friendly Shopping Experience
Trader Joe’s has been providing delightful shopping experiences since its inception. With their quirky Hawaiian-shirted crew members, well-stocked shelves, and eclectic product offerings, a trip to Trader Joe’s is unlike any other grocery store visit. It’s a place where you can embark on a culinary adventure and discover new flavors and food trends without breaking the bank.
Does Trader Joe’s Deliver Groceries?
While Trader Joe’s doesn’t offer nationwide grocery delivery, they do provide this service in certain locations. By visiting the Trader Joe’s website and entering your zip code, you can check if they offer grocery delivery in your area. If they do, you can place your order online and have your groceries conveniently delivered to your doorstep. Additionally, there are other grocery delivery services that offer Trader Joe’s products, expanding your options for obtaining your favorite items.
Trader Joe’s Grocery List:
For your convenience, we’ve compiled a grocery list of 30 essential items you can find at Trader Joe’s. You can download this list in PDF format or pin it on Pinterest to reference during your next shopping trip.
1. Hold the Cone! Mini Ice Cream Cones: These delectable mini ice cream cones are a Trader Joe’s classic. They come in various flavors and are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
2. Avocado Toast: Trader Joe’s offers a wide array of ingredients to create the ultimate avocado toast. From their deliciously ripe avocados to their artisanal bread selection, you’ll find everything you need for a tasty breakfast or snack.
3. Bagel Seasoning: Elevate your bagels, cream cheese, or any dish that needs a flavorful boost with Trader Joe’s Bagel Seasoning. This versatile blend of spices adds a delightful twist to your favorite recipes.
4. Riced Cauliflower: If you’re looking for a low-carb alternative to rice, Trader Joe’s Riced Cauliflower is a fantastic option. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in stir-fries, fried rice, or as a base for a delicious grain-free bowl.
5. Flowers: Trader Joe’s is renowned for their stunning flower selection. From vibrant bouquets to potted plants, they have the best flowers to brighten up any space or make a thoughtful gift.
6. Hold the Cone! Mini Ice Cream Cones (again): We can’t resist mentioning these delightful treats again because they’re simply that good!
7. Air Fryer Chicken Tikka Samosas: These crispy and flavorful chicken tikka samosas are an excellent appetizer or snack option. Simply pop them in your air fryer for a quick and delicious treat.
8. Everything But the Bagel Seasoning: Trader Joe’s Everything But the Bagel Seasoning has taken the culinary world by storm. Sprinkle it on your favorite dishes like avocado toast, eggs, or roasted vegetables for a burst of savory goodness.
9. New York-Style Cheesecake: Trader Joe’s New York-Style Cheesecake is a heavenly dessert that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Its rich and creamy texture paired with a buttery graham cracker crust is simply irresistible.
10. Organic Moroccan Mint Green Tea: Refreshing and aromatic, Trader Joe’s Organic Moroccan Mint Green Tea is a delightful beverage that can be enjoyed hot or iced. It’s a perfect choice for a soothing and flavorful cup of tea.
11. Mandarin Orange Chicken: Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken is a customer favorite, and for good reason. The crispy chicken paired with the tangy and sweet sauce creates a delicious Asian-inspired meal that’s quick and easy to prepare.
12. Cauliflower Gnocchi: This gluten-free and vegan-friendly alternative to traditional potato gnocchi has gained a loyal following. Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Gnocchi is a guilt-free indulgence that can be enjoyed with your favorite sauce or tossed with vegetables.
13. Cookie Butter: Trader Joe’s Cookie Butter is a true indulgence. Made from crushed Speculoos cookies, this creamy and spiced spread is perfect for spreading on toast, using as a dip, or incorporating into baked goods.
14. Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups: A healthier take on a classic treat, Trader Joe’s Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups are made with high-quality ingredients and are a heavenly combination of rich dark chocolate and creamy peanut butter.
15. Frozen Berries: Trader Joe’s offers a wide variety of frozen berries, perfect for smoothies, baking, or simply enjoying as a refreshing snack.
16. Speculoos Cookie Butter Ice Cream: If you love Cookie Butter, you’ll adore Trader Joe’s Speculoos Cookie Butter Ice Cream. It’s a delightful blend of creamy ice cream and swirls of spiced cookie butter.
17. Organic Pitted Medjool Dates: These naturally sweet and chewy dates are a nutritious snack on their own or can be used in baking, smoothies, or as a natural sweetener in recipes. These are fantastic natural sugar sources for kids that are sweet, healthy, and can help replenish their energy reserves when they are working hard with athletics. You don’t have to worry about processed sugars and they are easy to eat on the go! For more ideas about feeding your athlete kids with Trader Joe’s items, check out my blog post dedicated to this exact thing and things we stock in our home to fuel our swimmers!
18. Cowboy Bark: Trader Joe’s Cowboy Bark is a decadent chocolate treat loaded with pretzels, caramel, peanuts, and a sprinkle of sea salt. It’s the perfect indulgence for any chocolate lover.
19. Organic Tomato Basil Marinara Sauce: Trader Joe’s Organic Tomato Basil Marinara Sauce is a pantry staple that will elevate your pasta dishes or act as a flavorful base for homemade pizzas or casseroles.
20. Sparkling Water: Trader Joe’s offers a refreshing assortment of sparkling waters in various flavors, providing a bubbly and calorie-free alternative to sugary beverages.
21. Harvest Grain Blend: This hearty blend of Israeli couscous, orzo, baby garbanzo beans, and red quinoa is a versatile base for salads, pilafs, or as a side dish.
22. Almond Butter: Trader Joe’s Almond Butter is a creamy and nutritious spread made from roasted almonds. Enjoy it on toast, in smoothies, or as a dip for fruits and vegetables.
23. Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Trader Joe’s Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a high-quality oil that adds a deliciously robust flavor to your cooking and salads.
24. Frozen Pizza: Trader Joe’s frozen pizza selection is a crowd-pleaser. With various crust options and inventive toppings, they offer a convenient and tasty meal option for busy days.
25. Organic Brown Rice & Quinoa Fusilli Pasta: This gluten-free pasta is made from a blend of brown rice and quinoa, offering a nutritious and delicious alternative to traditional wheat-based pasta.
26. Unexpected Cheddar Cheese: Trader Joe’s Unexpected Cheddar Cheese lives up to its name. This tangy and slightly sweet cheese is a delightful surprise and pairs wonderfully with crackers or in sandwiches.
27. Organic Hummus: Trader Joe’s Organic Hummus is a creamy and flavorful dip made with high-quality ingredients. It’s a perfect accompaniment to vegetables, pita bread, or as a spread on sandwiches.
28. Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate: If you’re a coffee lover, Trader Joe’s Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate is a must-have. It allows you to create your own delicious iced coffee or customize your hot brew to your desired strength.
29. Frozen Cauliflower Pizza Crust: For a healthier pizza option, Trader Joe’s Frozen Cauliflower Pizza Crust is a game-changer. It’s gluten-free and offers a lighter alternative to traditional pizza dough.
30. Joe-Joe’s Cookies: Trader Joe’s Joe-Joe’s Cookies are a delightful take on the classic sandwich cookie. Available in various flavors, they are perfect for satisfying your cookie cravings.
Trader Joe’s is a treasure trove of essential items that cater to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. From unique and innovative products to pantry staples, their offerings make grocery shopping an enjoyable experience. Whether you visit their stores or take advantage of their grocery delivery options, Trader Joe’s ensures that you can access high-quality and affordable items to meet your everyday needs. Happy shopping and enjoy your 30-item grocery haul from Trader Joe’s!
Let’s be real honest here: the concept of how to get kids to clean without a fight not only seems like a pipe dream – it’s near laughable at this point. Your kids cleaning up WITHOUT fighting you and it turning into a screaming battle? HA!
But I’m here to tell you that it IS possible, as long as you approach it the right way. I’d like to think that we have this pretty down at this point. But fair warning: this is not a quick fix. This is a long-term game that requires commitment.
But a few months from now, you’ll be so happy that you did it. You might even have your preschooler jumping up to clean without you saying anything! (Yes, it’s possible!) If you’re in the same spot I was – ready to pull your hair out, tired of the screaming battles, and giving up to just do it yourself but pretty annoyed by the fact… keep reading.
I get you and I see you mama – it’s hard. But it doesn’t have to be. There is a better way.
How to Get Kids to Clean without a Fight
Ready for the tips to help you get your kids to clean without a power struggle? Let’s get to it.
Set clear expectations.
First things first – you absolutely have to set clear expectations. Kids are smarter than we give them credit for, but we need to provide consistency so they know what to expect. If they don’t… that’s when there’s problems as it creates a very chaotic response. So how do you start setting those expectations? There are a couple ways.
Communicate the rules.
The first thing you need to do is to set and start communicating the rules. You need to decide what this looks like for your family as everyone different.
Setting realistic expectations can look like:
If you pull out a toy, it needs to be put away before another one is brought out
Help make a mess, you help clean it up too
Toys must be picked up before transitioning to something else
All dirty clothes need to be put in the laundry/washing basket
They’re pretty simple, but they work! It takes time to understand and start following the rules, but set the expectation and keep reminding them. Eventually they will pick it up once it becomes a normal thing.
Follow a routine or schedule.
Once you’ve outlined and communicated the rules for cleaning up, make sure you have a routine or schedule to follow. This goes back to the consistency I talked about.
We generally clean up toys at these times:
After engaging in a block of open play time
Before we sit down for each meal
Before we go outside
These are the general rules to support the fact that life happens. Sometimes we are in a rush out the door, sometimes I just NEED the kids to get outside, and sometimes it’s something else completely. Create your routine in a way that allows life to happen.
But you also need an environment that makes this EASY. Which brings me to the next point…
Organize the environment.
A play area that is randomly thrown together makes cleaning up insanely hard. (It makes playing hard too!) You need to organize your environment that allows clean up to just flow without friction. There are a few ways to do this that I have found very helpful.
Avoid random tubs of toys.
Toy bins and toy boxes are the WORST thing you can have in a play room. This is where toys go to die and a guarantee for huge messes in minimal time.
All it takes is for one kid to remember that one McDonald’s toy from 6 weeks ago that is now buried at the bottom. They get frustrated that they can’t find it so what happens? ALL THE TOYS ARE ON THE FLOOR.
They dump a bin, pour arm fulls of toys on the floor, and everything in between. Then they complain when they have to clean up a giant pile of random toys that is VERY overwhelming. Let’s just avoid that all together by avoiding the random tub of toys situation.
So what should you do instead? I’ll explain.
Utilize organizational supplies.
There’s endless possibilities as to how to organize a playroom – just search Pinterest and you’ll see all that comes up! You’ll need to decide exactly how you want to set it up, but I HIGHLY encourage utilizing lots of organizational supplies to make things easy.
Here’s a few ideas to get you started:
Small bins that are clearly labeled with its contents
Cube shelving units with easy to access toys
Shelving for books to keep them off the floor
Rolling carts for things like art supplies
Give everything a spot.
Easily the MOST important tip I can give you. If nothing has a spot, you’ll hear a lot of “I don’t know where it goes” during cleanup and that gets real irritating fast. Plus, kids naturally do better when they are empowered to do things for themselves.
Organizing the space will help a lot – but make sure everything has a spot. Avoid randomly throwing things somewhere because you don’t know what else to do with it. Get more organizational supplies, if needed.
Provide support.
Now that you got the boundaries set and creating an environment that’s easy for cleaning up, it’s time to actually implement! Be patient as it will take a while for kids to transition to doing things this way.
Explain the importance of a clean space.
First and foremost – explain the importance of a clean space. “Because mom said so” is not a great reason and that won’t help them develop good cleaning habits. Instead, explain to them that cleaning several times throughout the day helps avoid big messes. You can also explain that we FEEL BETTER once it’s done. We feel calmer (mental health is a HUGE focus in our home) and we will have more room to play later.
Make it a fun game.
Cleaning is BORING – especially to kids. While us adults can push through it, expecting a child to do the same will lead to some problems during clean up. Set the expectation to find ways to ENJOY it.
We like to do things like:
Have a dance party while we clean up together
See who can get it done the fastest (and award the winner)
Play freeze and see who can get more done in each burst
Set a timer and try to beat the clock
Get creative and I’m sure you can figure out all sorts of ways to make cleaning more fun for kids!
Direct them when they are struggling.
Sometimes it can be a real struggle to get everything cleaned up. If it’s a big mess, it can be overwhelming to look at. Start by directing them to do a very specific action.
We always start with picking up blocks so I will instruct them to grab the block bag and fill it up. When they’re done, I’ll tell them to put all the dolls in their spot. After we gain momentum, they are much more likely to keep going on their own. Unfortunately, things won’t go perfect every time – as much as we want them to. Which leads me to one last reminder…
Pick your battles.
It is VITAL to remember to pick your battles. Some days are harder than others and it’s important to remember that kids are just tiny humans with bigger emotions and less understanding of the world around them. Be gentle with yourself and your children.
Avoid power struggles.
Power struggles are the WORST trap to get into. You’re yelling because you feel like you need to maintain control and your child is dead set on NOT doing anything purely because they’re testing you. This cycle can repeat for HOURS if you let it, too. Instead, try your best to support your child and follow their lead in regards to how they’re feeling and make adjustments as you go to support them in the process. (Knowing your child’s love language can help too!)
Know when to offer your help.
To stem off that, pay attention to your child and know when they truly need your help. Acts of defiance can oftentimes be something else entirely. Maybe they’re struggling with some STRONG emotions. Maybe they had a really hard day. And maybe they just need a chance to relax. Or maybe they want to spend time with you instead of doing it alone.
If it would be easier on BOTH of you to step in and help them and showcase teamwork… do it. Once in a while certainly isn’t going to hurt anything.
Now you can clean without a fight!
Getting your kids to clean can be a real challenge- but it doesn’t have to be. If you’re struggling to get your older kids to help around the house, try teaching them the proper way to clean. Show them how to dust, vacuum, and properly load the dishwasher. You can even turn it into a game by timing them to see who can finish first. For young children, lend a hand and make it into a fun activity. Play some music and dance around as you tidy up together. Cleaning doesn’t have to be a chore, and with a little creativity it can be something that the whole family enjoys.
Start by setting clear expectations by communicating the rules and following a solid routine so your child knows what to expect. It also helps to setup the environment so that cleaning happens easily. When you start cleaning, offer your support by communicating and directing them when they seem to be having a hard time. Get creative and find ways to turn cleaning into a game!
At the end of the day, you also need to pick your battles and know when it’s time to offer you help. So next time you’re feeling frustrated, remember these tips and enjoy a clean home without all the fuss. Do you have any tips on how to get kids to clean without fighting? Comment them below!
As a stay-at-home mom, you’ve chosen one of life’s most rewarding paths. But let’s face it, it’s not without its financial challenges. Many of us find ourselves without a personal income, relying solely on our partner’s earnings. Today, I want to share some practical strategies on how stay-at-home moms can successfully save money.
Budgeting is key for stay-at-home moms. By setting limits on your spending, you can ensure that you’re making the most of your family’s income. Consider using budgeting apps or spreadsheets to help you track your expenses and stay on target.
but we need to provide consistency so they know what to expect. If they don’t… that’s when there’s problems as it creates a very chaotic response. 
need to organize your environment that allows clean up to just flow without friction. 
goes” during cleanup and that gets real irritating fast. Plus, kids naturally do better when they are empowered to do things for themselves.
Recent Comments