Turn cleaning into a game to make it fun and encourage children to be a tidy kiwi. It also provides them with a great opportunity to learn how to follow instructions and learn new language, maths, and social skills.

Why do it?

  • Home is the first learning place and the whānau are the first teachers a child has.
  • A young child doesn’t always need special learning activities. Simple everyday household activities and routines can provide learning experiences in a familiar environment.
  • Having someone who loves them caring and nurturing them is exactly what they need, as it gives them a sense of belonging.
  • By learning what adults do, children learn these skills too.
  • It provides opportunities for language, maths and social learning.
Toy box with teddy bear and robot toy inside
Toy box with teddy bear and robot toy inside

How to do it

You’ll need: A mess to tidy, a little goofiness and some friendly competition. 

Race the song: Put on a song and see if you can tidy up everything before the song ends!

Play mission impossible: Put on some theme music and take turns choosing a mission. E.g. Our challenge is to put away anything that’s blue. Or all our shoes.

Kids vs parents: Race each other – kids tidying one room, adults another! Eek – don’t let the kids win!

Using more te reo Māori

Te reo Māori English
To tidy
Race
Music
Challenge
Living room