If you’re a parent, you know how quickly a house can go from calm and tidy to complete chaos. Dishes pile up, laundry waits to be folded, toys seem to multiply in every corner. And if you’re like me, ahhhh that mess can make your heart rate go up fast! It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and frustrated.
But instead of freaking out, I’ve learned to speak positively—to myself and to my kids. There’s one simple phrase I say that completely shifts my mindset when the mess feels like too much:
“This can all turn around in 20 minutes.”
When I remind myself of this, I feel calmer. I remember that the mess isn’t permanent, and I don’t have to tackle it all alone. With everyone pitching in, things really can look and feel different in just 20 minutes.
Why This Phrase Works
This little reminder keeps me from spiraling into negativity. Instead of focusing on the mess, I focus on the momentum. I know that if I call the kids together, assign a few jobs, and we all get moving, the whole house can shift quickly. It’s not about perfection—it’s about progress.
And honestly, kids feed off our energy! If I’m stressed and snappy, they don’t want to help. But if I stay positive and upbeat, they’re far more willing to join in.
Saying the phrase helps me model calmness and show them that work can be done without drama. And to make it even easier to build momentum, I’ll often turn on a fun music playlist. The energy shifts right away—suddenly the work feels lighter, everyone moves faster, and even the younger kids get more excited to join in.
Teaching Kids to Help at Home
Getting kids involved in the upkeep of the home isn’t just about having extra hands to clean. It’s about teaching them responsibility, teamwork, and the value of contributing. Even young kids can pick up toys, wipe counters, or help sort laundry. Older kids can take on bigger jobs like vacuuming, loading the dishwasher, or folding clothes.
When we invite our kids to work alongside us, they learn that home isn’t just a place where things magically get done. It’s a place we all care for together!
A System That Works: The Family Economy
If you want to go even deeper into teaching kids the value of work, I invite you to watch my webinar: “Teaching the Value of Work: The Family Economy.”
In this 40-minute class, I teach parents how to create a simple work-for-pay system in their homes. It’s a powerful way for kids to learn the connection between effort and reward, while also practicing money management. Instead of just giving an allowance, kids earn their own money by contributing to the family’s needs. It’s motivating, empowering, and teaches real-life skills that last.
The Takeaway
The next time your home feels overwhelming, pause and remind yourself: This can all turn around in 20 minutes. Then, call the kids together, assign jobs, and watch the momentum build. Not only will your house feel better, but you’ll also be teaching your children lessons about work, responsibility, and teamwork that will serve them their whole lives.
If you want more resources on the Family Economy and teaching your children how to contribute around the house, you might like these resources: