My secret strategy for tidying this space before the evening meal is my "1, 2, 3, 4, 5 method" of decluttering. I start by finding five items out of order on the top of a countertop, in a room, or strewn about the floor. I count the items as I go and place them back to where they belong. This helps me stay focused.
It's a simple-enough method for my whole family to use. My sons (ages 12 and 7) can easily look at the kitchen island and know which items need to be returned - if they are unsure, then I count and make a pile for them - to their places or tossed in the trash.
If a room or countertop still isn't picked up after the five items, then I repeat the process until the designated area is cleared and back in order. Typically two or three rounds of this process of picking up items and placing them in their designated spots will do the trick, and the space is cleared or ready to be cleaned.
This method works for a couple of reasons in my household. First, the counting method keeps me on track and only takes seconds to complete.
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