Child's play

Bond with your kids over simple home projects.

Kids love "home work." We parents so often forget that. We're always in a rush to get things done, even if that means excluding the kids. Do we really need the aid of a 7-year-old as we're climbing a ladder, hoping to complete our tasks over the weekend? No.

But the satisfaction I see in my kids' eyes as they help me, whether it's a task as complicated as changing a faucet or as simple as hanging a picture, makes the effort worth it. The challenge is to pick the right project.

Painting is ideal, especially outdoors. Start with an out-of-the-way spot, like the back of the garage, because kids go at it like the Tasmanian Devil until they get the knack of wielding a brush. Dress them in old clothes and a pair of safety goggles to protect their eyes, then let them paint right next to you as you demonstrate the proper technique.

When it's time to clean the gutters, little ones can help scoop up falling debris. Cleaning out closets and organizing the basement could involve building shelves to hold excess toys.

Involve them in the preparation, too. Take them to the home center; explain what you need. Ask their opinions. If you're redecorating, go over the color choices. You don't have to commit to their vision (a Barbie-pink living room?). But in the end you can say, "We did this together." Who knows? You may be raising another Mr. or Ms. Fix-It.

Lou Manfredini is the author of books including "Mr. Fix-It Introduces You to Your Home" and "Lou Manfredini's House Smarts."