When it comes to getting your kids to help around the house, it's critical to consider the age of the child. Very young children are going to need lots of direction and specific, step-by-step instructions. For example, with a 3-year-old, you might say, "Bobby, I need you to pick up all of your Legos in the next 10 minutes. When the kitchen timer rings, if they aren't in the box, you won't be able to play with them tomorrow." Then set the timer and follow through. Although this approach will demand more of your time and attention, it's much less frustrating and anger-provoking than repeatedly yelling, "Clean up this room, or you've had it!"
