Make a list

How many times do we say to our kids "Clean your room"?
If you are lucky you will have a self-motivated, get ur done child that just goes for it no matter what the challenge. But for most of us, we need to consider the possibility that our child (or children) may feel overwhelmed when looking at their room. They don't know HOW to clean it.
One simple tip is to write a list (using handwriting even the youngest can read) of what needs to be done in order for their room to be considered "clean".
Let your child decorate the list to help him or her feel ownership. You can even laminate it if you want (clear shelving paper works well)Together you decide what duties are reasonable.
Here is a simple list to be considered.
Added Tip: It is important to include pictures next to the words on the list if your child is too young to read.

Tanner's Room:
Put Toys Away. (It is helpful to have labeled bins or baskets with words and/or pictures on them)
Make Bed
Organize Book Shelf (This takes some training...counts for good quality time)
Put Away Clothes (More quality time teaching how to fold)

Even teenagers could benefit from a list. Then there is no confusion about what the expectation is and the pressure is no longer on you...just point to the list.