5 tips and tricks to help your child make the bed

 

While making a bed isn't difficult, convincing your kids to actually do it certainly is. It's a chore after all, but taking some time to encourage your child to keep things neat and tidy in the morning is certainly rewarding, both for them and for you. Whether you're a parent of a energetic four-year-old or trying to persuade a teen to plump up their pillows before they go to school, it's never too late to help your kids pick up such an important habit. Children will find there are many benefits to making their beds too, and with our top tips you'll be able to add this step into their routine in no time at all.

Clear the Clutter

Younger children have a tendency to use their bed as a shelter for a mountain of stuffed animals, toys and clothes. Set your younger kids up for success by clearing the clutter around the bed. Designate a specific spot for toys and stuffed animals. Explain that it is much easier to make a bed when their toys are put away and their space is clean! The more they practice, the more their confidence will grow.

Pick a fun and colourful duvet cover 

A great little tip lift your child’s bed-making enthusiasm is to let them choose a cool duvet and pillow set that they feel proud of and love to see looking made up and tidy. Their favourite animal  or themed design looks at its best when everything is flat and smooth, which will give them a sense of accomplishment and pride in their work.

Keep the bedding set up simple 

Keep their bedding simple - avoid adding too many decorative pillows and throws, and opt for a fitted bottom sheet  that stays put so your children don't have to bother fixing them back into place. Two pillows and a simple duvet will do.

Don't focus on bed-making as being a chore

Make it fun, and turn it into a game - you can set a timer and ask them to beat the clock, or put their favourite song on in the background and challenge them to complete the bed before it's over. Praising them for their efforts is important as well, and a small reward (such as an extra treat at breakfast) at the start of the learning process won't go amiss.

How to encourage your child to make their bed

If you're lucky, your child might be eager to start making their own bed. However, if they're not so keen - don't worry, most won't be - you can try the following to give them a little bit of encouragement.

Younger children love to get involved with things, and generally enjoy contributing to tasks - no matter how boring they may be! Let them join in with bed-making around the house and have your child assist you at first - teach them the basics, then let them know they're ready to do it all by themselves.

Whatever the end result, parents shouldn't be tempted to remake the bed. A few lumps, bumps and wonky cushions are to be expected at the start, but avoid fixing things. Adjusting your kid's hard work will only make them feel like their efforts weren't good enough, potentially putting them off making their bed in the future. After a while, bed-making will hopefully become part of your child's everyday routine. If you suddenly walk into their room and find that they've already began the bed-making process without your instruction, give praise then leave them to it. It'll help them to become more independent, and once it becomes a habit it'll be something they continue to do into adulthood.