This "genius" laundry trick has everyone talking—helpful tip or too much for toddlers?
- Replies 2
In today’s fast-paced world, where social media constantly introduces new life hacks, a recent laundry trick has caught the attention of millions.
What seemed like a simple, creative way to teach organization has sparked a much deeper conversation.
Is this trick an effective method to introduce responsibility to young children, or is it asking too much from toddlers?
The video, which has racked up over 63 million views, demonstrates how a few pieces of cardboard can be turned into a tool that helps little ones fold their clothes.
The reactions were immediate—and divided.
Many praised the idea as a fun and clever way to involve children in household tasks, while others questioned whether toddlers should be doing chores at all.
"GENIUS!" one viewer commented, suggesting that not just toddlers but even spouses, teenagers, and adult children could benefit from this easy folding technique.
But not everyone was impressed.
Some critics expressed concern, with comments like "Shouldn’t kids just be playing at that age?" and "Isn’t this a little much for a toddler?"
Child development experts, however, see no harm in the approach.
In fact, they say encouraging young children to participate in small household tasks can have several benefits.
It can strengthen motor skills, build confidence, and create a sense of belonging within the family.
"It gives them a sense of ownership," explains Jill Trumbell, an assistant professor of human development and family studies at the University of New Hampshire.
She emphasizes that teaching children early on that everyone plays a role in maintaining the home can be a positive experience.
Julie Braungart-Rieker, a professor at Colorado State University, agrees but stresses the importance of keeping chores age-appropriate.
For toddlers, this could mean tasks like folding small clothing items or tidying up toys.
The key, she says, is to make it enjoyable rather than a duty.
Of course, not every child will always be in the mood to help.
Trumbell advises that parents should avoid forcing participation, as it can take the joy out of the experience.
Instead, they should look for signs that their child is ready and interested.
In the now-famous laundry video, the child appears happy and engaged, suggesting that the activity was introduced in a way that felt fun rather than forced.
According to Braungart-Rieker, this is an example of how chores can be turned into a positive, bonding experience.
Source: Instagram / the_goddard_fam
So, where does that leave us in this debate?
Teaching children responsibility is important, but it should always be done in a way that respects their age, interests, and developmental stage.
What works for one family might not work for another, and that’s perfectly okay.
At The GrayVine, we’d love to hear from you. What do you think about young children helping with chores? Do you believe this laundry hack is a clever teaching tool, or do you feel toddlers should be left to play instead? Let’s continue the conversation in the comments below!
What seemed like a simple, creative way to teach organization has sparked a much deeper conversation.
Is this trick an effective method to introduce responsibility to young children, or is it asking too much from toddlers?
The video, which has racked up over 63 million views, demonstrates how a few pieces of cardboard can be turned into a tool that helps little ones fold their clothes.
The reactions were immediate—and divided.
Many praised the idea as a fun and clever way to involve children in household tasks, while others questioned whether toddlers should be doing chores at all.
A toddler helps with laundry—an adorable learning moment or too much responsibility? Image Source: Pexels / Kampus Production.
"GENIUS!" one viewer commented, suggesting that not just toddlers but even spouses, teenagers, and adult children could benefit from this easy folding technique.
But not everyone was impressed.
Some critics expressed concern, with comments like "Shouldn’t kids just be playing at that age?" and "Isn’t this a little much for a toddler?"
Child development experts, however, see no harm in the approach.
In fact, they say encouraging young children to participate in small household tasks can have several benefits.
It can strengthen motor skills, build confidence, and create a sense of belonging within the family.
"It gives them a sense of ownership," explains Jill Trumbell, an assistant professor of human development and family studies at the University of New Hampshire.
She emphasizes that teaching children early on that everyone plays a role in maintaining the home can be a positive experience.
Julie Braungart-Rieker, a professor at Colorado State University, agrees but stresses the importance of keeping chores age-appropriate.
For toddlers, this could mean tasks like folding small clothing items or tidying up toys.
The key, she says, is to make it enjoyable rather than a duty.
A toddler uses a simple cardboard tool to fold laundry—helpful skill-building or just for fun? Image Source: Instagram / the_goddard_fam.
Of course, not every child will always be in the mood to help.
Trumbell advises that parents should avoid forcing participation, as it can take the joy out of the experience.
Instead, they should look for signs that their child is ready and interested.
In the now-famous laundry video, the child appears happy and engaged, suggesting that the activity was introduced in a way that felt fun rather than forced.
According to Braungart-Rieker, this is an example of how chores can be turned into a positive, bonding experience.
Source: Instagram / the_goddard_fam
So, where does that leave us in this debate?
Teaching children responsibility is important, but it should always be done in a way that respects their age, interests, and developmental stage.
What works for one family might not work for another, and that’s perfectly okay.
At The GrayVine, we’d love to hear from you. What do you think about young children helping with chores? Do you believe this laundry hack is a clever teaching tool, or do you feel toddlers should be left to play instead? Let’s continue the conversation in the comments below!
