Make putting away toys and cleaning up a fun event for the children.  Try singing the "clean-up" song or teach them another song which will help them learn that helping out can be fun.

Make sure you are giving specific instructions to the children. They are still very young and they will not be able to follow your directions unless they are simple and specific. Telling them to clean up will not make sense, but telling them to each put one toy they played with on the red shelf for example, will make more sense to them.

Time outs for children this age can be effective when they are given for an action, not for a non-action. For example when a child hits you or another child, a time out will teach a child more than if you give a time out for not picking up toys.

You can find more advice on how to effectively work with toddlers and preschoolers by visiting our website: www.parenting.org  We also suggest our book, "Common Sense Parenting for Toddlers and Preschoolers" as a resource. You can find the book and DVD at libraries and bookstores.

Thanks again for reaching out. Take care and best wishes to you and the children you serve!

Cynthia, Counselor
Boys Town National Hotlnie
1-800-448-3000
hotline@boystown.org