I am 100% in on the list method. I am not a single mum, but I find being in a mess very overwhelming. I grew up in a house without clutter and I think physical space can often be a manifestation of how frazzled we are. Making things tidier makes me feel better and lists are where it is at - I do also think I could try the sweep method, it's never occurred to me to do that - but I do think I'd probably simply move stuff from one end of the room to other other :o/

Thanks for sharing your tips :o)