If you’re here, chances are you’re a parent who knows all too well how quickly toys can take over your home. Are they multiplying overnight?! One of the best ways to tackle the toy clutter is to teach your toddler to pick up their own toys. If this feels like an uphill battle, don’t worry—you’re not alone, and I’ve got you covered! Today, I’m sharing four practical and fun tips to help you motivate your toddler to clean up their toys and keep your space (and sanity) in check.

Have Fun

Instead of forcing your toddler to pick up their toys (hello, power struggle!), try making clean-up time fun! When you turn chores into games, you’re much more likely to win your child's cooperation—and maybe even share some giggles along the way. Here are two playful ideas to try:

• I spy: Adapt the classic "I Spy" game to help your child clean up. You can spy colors, shapes, objects, etc. Your child’s mission? Pick up all the toys that fit the description. For example, if you say, “I spy something red,” your child will then pick up all the toys that are red. 
• Musical Clean Up: Turn on your child’s favorite playlist. While the music plays, your child will clean up as fast as they can. When the music stops, they'll freeze! Continue the fun until all the toys are back where they belong.

Be Consistent

Consistency is your secret weapon when it comes to getting your toddler to clean up their toys. Setting clear expectations helps your child know what’s expected—and when. Decide on a routine that works for your family. Will they clean up toys as they play throughout the day, or is it an end-of-day task? Once you’ve made your choice, communicate it clearly and stick to it. By staying consistent, you’ll help your child build the habit of tidying up without the daily battles.

Don't Ask, Tell Them

Why do we always ask toddlers if they want to do something when it’s actually non-negotiable? Instead of asking, “Do you want to pick up your toys?” be direct and tell them: “It’s time to clean up your toys.” From there, offer a simple choice to get them started: “Would you like to pick up the Legos or the blocks first?”

By giving your toddler a choice, you’re inviting them to have a say in the clean-up process. This approach helps you avoid a power struggle and encourages teamwork as you both work toward the same goal: a tidy play area.

Use a First, Then Statement

If your toddler struggles with cleaning up, try following the task with something fun! A simple “First, then” approach works wonders: “First, we clean up our toys, then we can go to the park,” or “First, we clean up our toys, then we can have a snack.” When your child knows an enjoyable activity is next, they’re much more likely to help out and stay motivated.

The next time you feel buried under a pile of toys, give one of these strategies a try. With a little creativity and consistency, you can make clean-up time stress-free—and even fun—for both you and your child!