Since small children are constantly making messes and dirtying their clothes, it's easy to feel like your house is always a wreck. If you want your child to help you keep things tidy, make chores or simple tasks into a game. Avoid just telling your child that he has to clean something up. You may need to help him or get him started. You can also make challenges or chores into races where you compete. For example, get a large bucket and help your child toss toys into it. You might encourage your child to find all of the blocks or balls to throw in. This will help him learn to sort and makes cleaning more interactive. Make chores a competition between several kids. This will make it seem more like a game. Kids like feeling as though they have some control or power over things. If you give your child an option, he'll feel as though he's in control of the situation and he'll be less likely to disobey or throw a tantrum. For example, you might tell your child he can select his pajamas to get ready for bed or he can pick out what story he'd like to listen to before bedtime. When giving small kids options, keep them simple or your child might become overwhelmed. Also, give your kid a chance to make the decision. If you're caring for several kids, ask "who wants to help me with this project?" Small children don't have a sense of time like adults do. But, they do have a sense of routine. Knowing what comes next and what to expect during the day can be comforting. You don't need to plan out detailed activities for every hour of the day. But, a loose routine will give your kid a sense of security which can improve his behavior and create good habits. For example, a loose bedtime routine might include getting pajamas on, brushing teeth, snuggling while reading stories, and bed. When handling more than one child, it can help to coordinate their nap schedules so that they both get rest and you get a break. Don't wait for your child to do something naughty before talking about appropriate behavior. Instead, catch your child doing something good and praise him for it. Kids respond better to positive reinforcement than punishment. Just be sure to use specific praises or your child might start tuning it out. For example, if your child wipes up a spill, you could say, "Good job cleaning up after your mess!" Avoid chastising one child by pointing out how good another child is. This will just make one kid resent the other one.
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One-sentence summary -- Make tasks fun. Give choices. Create a routine. Reward good behavior.

Find a location where there is no danger of dampness. An indoor location like a shed or hayloft or shaded outdoor region works. Avoid areas with little airflow, such as garages, and never dry them in a basement. Check your drying pumpkin seeds daily and turn them so they dry evenly on both sides. Do not leave your seeds in clumps. They will not dry thoroughly and this might cause mold to develop. Air-drying is the most effective and safest method of drying, but also the most time-consuming. Pour all of your seeds in an envelope or paper bag and store them somewhere cool and dry. If you can't find a suitable location, place in them in the refrigerator. Discard any seeds with mold and mildew.
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One-sentence summary -- Air-dry your seeds in a cool, dry place for at least 1 month. Store your dried seeds in a paper bag or envelope until roasting or planting.

When your guinea pig first arrives in your home, it is likely to be overwhelmed and scared. A secure, calm, and quiet space will help your guinea pig begin to feel safe in its new environment. Keep your guinea pig away from other pets, small children, and loud noises. A quiet space will help to prevent the guinea pig from becoming startled or scared. If possible, place your guinea pig's cage in a room that can be completely shut off. This way you can occasionally open the cage and let your guinea pig have playtime. Give your guinea pig some time to adjust to its new home. Avoid handling it for up to 3 days after you bring it home to help it settle in. The minimum recommended cage size for 1-2 guinea pigs is 7.5 square feet (2.3 m). Add 1.5 square feet (.46m) for each additional guinea pig. There should be plenty of room for the guinea pig to run; if you add a lot of ramps or accessories, you may need to go to a larger size. The base of the cage should be a solid surface. Guinea pigs may get their paws stuck and injure themselves if the floor of the cage is made of wire or mesh. A solid plastic floor is safer and will be easy to clean. That said, no matter what type of cage you get, you will need a thick layer of bedding to protect your guinea pig's feet. Look for cages that are easy to clean and maintain. You should be able to easily reach all areas of the cage. You should also look for cages made from easily cleanable materials, such as plastic. Metal cages are also acceptable, but be aware that they may rust and need to be replaced. Hay, paper, towels, and woodchips can all serve as bedding for your guinea pig. Most pet stores sell wood shavings which are also a popular form of bedding. Remember to change the bedding about once every week. Never add damp or wet bedding as it can grow mold. Avoid using sawdust or straw as bedding as they can also mold easily. Cedar and pine shavings can be toxic to guinea pigs, so look carefully at the type of wood shavings you are using as bedding. These will help the guinea pig to feel comfortable. Huts and igloos provide a place where the guinea pig can hide and feel safe when they are overwhelmed. They can be purchased online or at your local pet store. Consider adding toys, such as balls, ramps, or cardboard tubes to provide entertainment for your guinea pig. Speaking to your guinea pig will help them get used to your voice. When you feed them, clean the cage, or change their water, talk to them in a calm tone. You should also visit your guinea pig and speak to them throughout the day so that they begin to get used to your presence.
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One-sentence summary --
Choose a quiet, calm location for your guinea pig's cage. Buy a cage that is large enough for your guinea pig. Add bedding to the cage. Place toys and hutches into the cage. Talk to your guinea pig.