Games and strategies to turn chores into playtime!
In this game, players compete to be the first one to complete a goal. Start by choosing who goes first (click here for a list of ways to pick who goes first). The first player then decides on a goal and announces it to the other player(s). All players should then stand in a row. When all players are in place, they can count down from three and then…
Place a pillow case of unpaired socks in the middle of the table. It works best to have a minimum of 10 socks per player (5 pairs) – the more socks, the better! Each player should close their eyes, reach into the pillow case and pull out 5 socks. Players should keep the socks in their “hand” secret from the other players…
Number of players: 1+ In this game, players must clean in alphabetical order. The first item they pick up should start with an “A.” The next item should start with a “B” and so on until they have gone through… Read moreThe Alphabet Cleaning Game
Classic Cleaning Games: Red Light, Clean Light – Choose a player to be the first “traffic controller.” The traffic controller calls out “clean light” and all players start cleaning the room as quickly as possible…
Give each player a cloth or a paper towel (the cloths should be about the same size and color). Players should get their cloths slightly damp or apply a safe non-toxic cleaning solution to them (our family prefers Method cleaning products). Then set a timer for 10 minutes. On the count of three, players race to see…
Number of Players: 2+ (see below for rules for two players) How to: All players stand in a circle. One player starts by secretly choosing an item in the room that needs to be put away and pretends to hold… Read moreHands
Improv Cleaning Game: Skits – How to: Have all players gather five or ten items that need to be put away and place them in a bag or a box. The players then stand in a circle…
Cleaning games for kids: Charades. In charades, players take turns silently acting out an object in the room…
Improv Cleaning Games: Props – Each player gathers 10 things that need to be put away, puts their collection of mess in a cardboard box (or any large container – bag, bin, etc) and passes their box to another player. The players then stand in a large circle and…
Number of Players: 1+ How to: Players pretend to be Cinderella (or Cinderevan for the boys) trying to finish all of their chores quickly enough that they can make themselves a beautiful gown (or a handsome suit) and be able to attend the ball. The room… Read moreCinderella