Be the parent.

Tell her, specifically, what you mean by "clean". Give her 2 to 3 tasks she can reasonably complete, and a reasonable time frame in which to complete them. "Susie, I want you to hang up all of these clean clothes, put all of those dirty clothes in the hamper, and make your bed. You have thirty minutes. I'll check on you then."


Then leave her to it.

When you come back, if she has not completed the chores, ask her why. She may have a legit reason: "there aren't enough hangers in my closet". If, on the other hand, she is just ignoring you or procrastinating, give her the directions again, a shorter time limit, and add a severe (meaning: IMPORTANT TO HER) consequence; "Susie, I want you to finish hanging up these clean clothes and make your bed. You have fifteen minutes. In fifteen minutes, if you still haven't done what I asked you will not be allowed to watch any tv for the rest of the week."



1) Be reasonable; set chores appropriate to her age.

2) Be specific. "Clean your room" is too vague.

3) Set time limits - again, within reason.

4) Give a second chance, but with severe consequences spelled out for her to understand.

5) Follow through.



If you are consistent, she will get the picture. Ultimately you will be making life easier for you, and eventually for her. After all, you are teaching her to take care of her things when you are not around to do so for her (unless you are planning on living forever) AND you are teaching her that failing to live up to reasonable demands will meet with negative consequences - a lesson that her future teachers, bosses, romantic partners and countless others will undoubtedly thank you for.

Good advice! I employ a similar tactic with my 4-year-old. I give him specific jobs to do. So far he has always followed through, but I appreciate these tips for when he doesn't.