How do you keep the house in a reasonable state with kids in the house all day

[PineappleBun]

Ok, with 2 kids 3 and 6, I don't expect the house to be immaculate. I just need the sofa clear when I want to set down and no need to step on toys and paper when I walk through the house.
Tried to make the kids tidy up after playing but if I can push them do it once week it would be a lucky day. Whenever I try to tidy up, it's back to the mess after 30 min.
How do you all do this?

[Asgoodasarest]

Honestly? I can’t. I make sure that there’s nothing hazardous or disgusting around. I try and not allow new toys out until the old ones are away (varying success). Otherwise I tidy up properly when they’re in bed and try and let it go during the day. I hate that it’s a tip, but honestly I waste so much time trying to tidy I’ve had to let my standards slip while everyone is here.

[Makesmilingyourbesthobby]

I feel you DC,2,5 & 12 here,
1, I’ve let the expectations lower on how well the toys are tidied up ( as long as toys are in the correct boxes like Lego box or barbie stuff is all in the house etc)
2, they have to tidy up one thing before they can get something else out, I help too.
3, we all take our own plates,cups,wrappers out kitchen or put them in the bin.
4, they all help set the table for each meal and we all tidy up before their bed time (each given a job-12 year old is hoovering downstairs, 5 yo is wipe the table down and put cushions tidy & me & 2 yo put the remaining toys away,
5, when all the daily school work is complete I try and give them activities to keep them busy and stop them becoming bored, 2 & 5 year old love a yoga channel for children I have found on you tube and Ebooks that we sit and listen to together amongst other things, 12 year old is enjoying applying for all the different blue peter badges you can get and likes watching live safari cams.