Create an Ordered Environment
Having a place for everything, on a child-friendly scale, encourages both independence and self-discipline. Children know where to find what they need, and where to put it when they’re done. An ordered environment also has fewer distractions, allowing children to focus on the task at hand.
To make things accessible to your young child:
- Provide low shelves or drawers for clothing; lower the rod in the bedroom closet.
- Keep a small step stool in the bathroom and kitchen so your child can reach the sink.
- Arrange toys and games on low open shelves with a particular place for each. Sort smaller items into trays or baskets by category, such as puzzles, art supplies, and blocks.
- Put healthy snacks and foods on a low pantry shelf so your child can help himself.
- Pour drinks into small, manageable pitchers placed on a low refrigerator shelf. Keep cups within your child’s reach—along with a sponge to clean up spills.
