Clean Desk Clean Mindset

Clean Desk, Clear Mindset

In the new year, it's the perfect time to encourage your kids to clean and organize their spaces—starting with their desks and bedrooms. By teaching them the importance of tidying up, you’re not just helping them declutter; you’re also setting them up for academic success and instilling important life skills.

Research shows that a clean workspace has significant benefits. According to a Clorox survey, children are more productive, creative, and less stressed when their environments are tidy. Psychologist Anjali Gowda Ferguson also notes that cleanliness reduces anxiety and gives kids a sense of control, while helping them develop responsibility and self-esteem.

Getting kids involved in the cleaning process is key. A 75-year Harvard study found that one trait common among high achievers was learning chores as children. Early habits, like making the bed or organizing their rooms, can translate into better organization skills in the classroom, leading to fewer lost assignments and better grades.

To start, guide your kids in deciding what to keep, donate, or throw away. Make tidying up fun by involving them in the process and allowing them to make decisions about how to organize their space. Creating a daily "Tidy Time" of just 10-15 minutes can make a big difference, as can offering small rewards like allowances to teach the value of hard work.

In the end, a clean space not only promotes physical and emotional well-being but also fosters gratitude and a sense of calm. A tidy room gives kids a peaceful place to unwind and set them up for future success, both in school and in life.

Source: https://www.thechildrenstrust.org/news/parenting-our-children/clean-desk-clear-mindset/