nagging.
Option 1 is quite legitimate for some families, but there are two
problems with this procedure: (1) most parents find the notion
unacceptable, and (2) dirty dishes and dirty laundry can’t be ignored.
If you don’t want to use Option 1, more suggestions will follow in
the next sections of this chapter. As for dirty dishes and dirty clothes,
you can try almost any other Start behavior tactic. A timer, charting,
or the 1-2-3 method (if the dishes or clothes can be picked up in less
than two minutes) can be helpful. Remember to praise compliance
from time to time with older kids and frequently with younger
children.
Some parents whose kids are older simply tell them that any
clothes that don’t make it to the laundry or hamper don’t get washed.
Then the child has to wash them herself. Those are examples of
natural consequences. The docking system can also be considered.
You go and get the dirty clothes or dishes from the room, but you
charge for your labor. You’ll feel better about having to do the job.
Make sure you keep your mouth shut about the whole operation and
keep the fees reasonable.
The Weekly Cleanup Routine
Don’t like Option 1? Option 2 is a favorite with many moms and
dads. With the weekly cleanup routine, the kids have to clean their
rooms only once a week, but according to your specifications. You
might explain that the following chores have to be done: pick up toys,
put clothes in hamper, make bed, maybe vacuum. A specific day and
time, such as Saturday morning, is chosen, and the child is not
allowed to go outside, play, or do anything else until his room is done
and you’ve approved it.
Cleaning the room is a Start behavior, and you will be rewarding
the child immediately after the room cleaning with both freedom and
praise. If artificial reinforcers are necessary, these rewards will be