Aside from bribery or adding car care onto your child’s weekly chore list, there are a few steps your family can take to make sure your vehicle always stays clean. Teaching your children auto etiquette is simple; explain how the same manners that apply to them in the home, also apply when they are in the vehicle.
Your car can be as clean as your living room with these five steps:
1. When they are entering a home or business they need to wipe their feet, the same goes for entering your vehicle. If they have been playing in sand or in an area that may attract unnecessary messes, removal of their shoes may be necessary. Keep plastic bags handy to set muddy or wet shoes in during transport.
2. Pick up after themselves. After a child is finished playing, they are to clean up their toys. They can do the same in the car to. Whatever they bring in, is what they take out. This includes toys, clothing, trash, and snacks.
3. Put a lid on it! If your child uses a sippy cup at home to prevent spills, they should also use them in the car. Bring spill proof cups during afternoon errands or on long trips. Keep a water bottle handy to rinse them out when you are done.
4. If you drop it, pick it up! Although a child cannot pick up their toy immediately because the vehicle is in motion, doesn’t mean they can’t pick it up at all. As soon as the car is turned off, tell your children to check their area and make sure all belongings are picked up and brought inside.
5. Offer rewards for keeping their area clean. In an effort to help encourage your children to follow the car rules, help them along with a reward. Set a date to give the reward each week/month, and give to each child that has completed the daily car care tasks you asked for. Rewards can be anything from a special snack to holding the water hose the next time you wash the car. Think like a child to find your perfect reward.
What is something you do daily to take care of your car?
