Written by Mrs. Tomisona Adeduwon for Tonyclown Ministries
Responsibility doesn’t just appear when a child grows up; it starts with small habits learned at home. Toddlers may be little, but they love to copy what they see. By guiding them through simple daily routines, we teach them discipline, order, and self-respect; values that will follow them for life.
1. Clean Up After Eating
Let your toddler see you carry your plate to the kitchen after meals. Then show them how to do the same. Give them a napkin and teach them how to wipe the table, especially if there are crumbs. Keep practicing this after every meal until it becomes a normal part of their day.
2. Put Dirty Clothes in the Laundry Basket
Show them where the laundry basket is and explain that dirty clothes should always go there. It may take a few reminders, but with time, they’ll start doing it on their own—and even remind others too!
3. Pick Up and Put Away Toys
Teach your child that every toy has a home. Show them where each one belongs and encourage them to put things away after playtime. You can make it fun by turning it into a game: “Let’s see who can pack faster!” This keeps cleaning cheerful and consistent.
4. Wipe Low Surfaces
Give them a small cleaning role they can handle. Hand them a soft cloth and let them wipe the center table or stools in the living room after dinner. Tell them it’s their special duty and remind them daily until it becomes a routine. It builds pride and a sense of ownership.
5. Arrange Shoes and Slippers
Create a shoe corner. Show them where to keep their school shoes and house slippers. When they return from school, they can drop their school shoes there and wear their house slippers. It’s a small step that teaches order and neatness.
Final Thought
Parenting in this time and age comes with many responsibilities, but teaching children to be responsible doesn’t have to be stressful. Start small, be patient, and lead by example. These early lessons help raise children who are thoughtful, disciplined, and ready to live for Jesus, both at home and beyond.
