Last Christmas, my mom gave me something she probably didn't even realize I would treasure. Or maybe, in her wisdom, she did realize it. She gave me printouts of chore schedules that my sister and I had when we were growing up. (my sister's birthday is on the 19th of the month, and mine is on the 14th - so we could divide duties by odd numbered days and even numbered days!)
Are you impressed with how a good ol' dot matrix printer's product has held up for 25+ years?! ;)
I can tell you without a doubt that I did not fully appreciate these schedules when they were in force in our house. My sister and I both had chores we hated - me: dishwasher, especially the flatware; her: plan and prepare an evening meal. But here's the kicker: as a wife and mother, I do every.single.chore listed on these schedules. That's right, she was not only ensuring our household ran smoothly with everyone pulling their weight, she was training me for what my life is now!
I see a lot of moms online struggle with balancing childcare and household upkeep. These schedules are extremely basic, but I thought they really have a good structure for a rhythm of chores.
I do dishes and laundry every day - dishes after every meal, and I try to carry a load of laundry with me on the way to the kitchen as my first task every day. We have three bathrooms in this house, and I don't always clean them from top to bottom in a single session - sometimes I give the toilet a quick swish, sometimes I wipe down the counters as I have the chance. There is no right or wrong way to clean house or keep up with the chores - the main thing is JUST DO IT. Clean something, straighten something, declutter something every day...and it you'll see results quickly!
I hope these basic outlines are helpful to you and show that a little every day is key to keeping a home that everyone will be happy to live in! I was about 8 or 9 when I had these responsibilities. Feel free to adapt to any children you have as a way to engage them in the household upkeep! I know I'm so glad I had this training growing up.
Stay Fluffy!
