- Minimize stuffed animals
Choose a few stuffed animals that hold special memories and that your child actually uses; the rest can go.
- Pick out child’s best art work and trash the rest
Display your choices in frames or place them in a scrapbook. You could even take pictures of their masterpieces, and then recycle guilt-free!
- Make clean-up time fun (and mandatory)
Children must learn to help clean up their messes; sing the “clean-up” song or have a race to make it more fun!
- Choose kid-friendly laundry basket
A basketball hoop hung over the basket is a great way to help get the dirty clothes where they belong. Also, choose one with a safe lid (or no lid) to avoid smashed fingers.
- Designate backpack zone
Establish a home for backpacks and jackets. For example, place a low hook by the front door that your child can reach.
- Donate, donate, and donate!
There are many charities in need of your family’s used items. Get it out of your house and put it to good use.
- Limit amount of toys out at one time
Does it look like a toy chest exploded in your living room? Keep a handle on the mess by cleaning up toys before pulling out more.
- Label containers with pictures
Snap a shot of the contents and apply the picture to the container with a label so your family can easily find what you need.
- Use internal reward system, not material stuff
We tend to reward good behavior or accomplishments with more ‘stuff.’ Try a simple, “Look at that; you helped a friend today. I am so proud of you!”
- Be a role model
Children learn what they see. Find the system that works for you and your children will see how valuable organization really is!