When can I expect DD to start helping to tidy her toys away in the evening?

[RainbowsFriend]

I keep trying but we both end up getting stressed.

She tries to "help" with other stuff during the day - like hanging washing up, unpacking shopping etc, but will NOT put toys/books away.

Am I expecting too much of her? She is 18 months.

My DD2 is 18 months, and she's actually better at tidying than my 4 year old!

I think you're right to keep working on it, but I don't think you should get stressed about it. If I were you I'd keep inviting her to help, tell/show her what you're doing and give loads of enthusiasm of she helps even a little bit- she'll get there.

She is a baby and probably tired. Have you tried doing it earlier, perhaps before tea or singing a song with her as you do it? We went to rhythm time. We didn't like the classes but their "pop it in the basket" song is very useful

16mo ds helps out with tidying up (and all other chores). It's always been part of his day and he has moved from helping alongside me to doing it himself or with his sister when asked.

Don't stress; encourage, model, praise etc. You'll get there.

Thanks.

So I'm not expecting too much of her, but might have been going about it in the wrong way - but it's so hard to make anything fun when I'm bloody knackered from being at work all day, then pick up DD, cook, wash up etc etc then tidy the toys.

Tidying earlier wouldn't work as I rely on the toys to keep her occupied while I cook! I will try to make it more of a competition /race though - thank you :)

I swear dealing with 30 stroppy teenagers at a time throughout the day is easier than one stroppy toddler at the end of the day