Teaching Kids to Make Their Bed

What age do you teach a child to make their bed? I say as soon as they go from a crib to a toddler bed. Why wait? Children are very teachable at a young age and once it becomes a routine it will be something they expect to do on a daily basis. Now you can't expect your child to make their own bed if you don't make yours as they will question why you say one thing and do another. Consistency in teaching children is a key factor in their learning to do simple tasks.

Teaching your child to make the bed is easier when they go from a crib to a toddler bed, or from a toddler bed to a regular size bed as it is a new transition. It is also a great time to let them help pick out some new kids bedding and personalized bedroom decor to give them a sense of ownership. Having new kids bedding is exciting and simple as a new comforter can transform the look of a room. It also makes them feel like they are a big kid now. If they have been in a big kid bed for awhile now you can still follow the steps outlined below. Remember it is never too late to teach a child to make their bed.

In the beginning you will need to help them each day to get them in the habit of making their bed. Morning routines are important. I recommend when the child gets out of bed they use the bathroom and brush their teeth before anything else. Once that is done with your help they make the bed. Habits begin early.

Step 1 - Show them by example how to make a bed. If they want to help you right away let them. Encourage them by telling them it takes some big muscles to make a bed.

Step 2 - Make it simple and fun. You might even want to set a timer to see if you can "Beat the Clock"! You stand on one side of the bed and have your child stand on the other side. And have your child copy what you do. Another fun way to get them to do what you do is a simple quick game of "Simon Says".

Step 3 - Each of you take the top corner of the top sheet and at the same time pull it up where you like to have it. Repeat the same thing with the blanket and again with the kids comforter, quilt, or bedspread. If one side is uneven show your child how to make it even. Smooth out any wrinkles. Then place the pillow at the head of the bed.

Step 4 - Praise them on how big they are and what a big help they are! Children genuinely like to please their parents and they respond much better with praise.

Step 5 - Time to eat breakfast.

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