Do you feel like you’re drowning in your kids’ toys? Here are 3 ideas to gain control over your main play area.
I am a big believer in the less-is-more principle and attribute kids being more likely to play with their toys when they are easy to see and access and not overwhelmed. If you are overstimulated by the toys, your kids most likely are as well. Plus having less makes it easier for you, or better yet – your kids, to clean up. Win-win!
Technique #1: Categorize and Label
First, bring all of the toys to the center of the room.
Contain each category in the appropriate size container. Clear bins are great to see the contents, open top can also work well. Next, add a label with a label maker, paint marker, or cut out the box and tape it to the inside front. Pictures are great especially for young kids to know what goes into each category.
Example categories: tools, doll accessories, tree blocks, figurines, barbies.
Technique #2: Place Favorite or “Tester” Toys Back With Breathing Room
Now that you have a blank slate to work with, place favorite toys back with breathing room. This makes it easier for kids to clean up as well. This is also a good time to place out “tester” toys and see if it’s easier for them to see and access if they are more likely to play with them.
Technique #3: Create a Toy Library
If you have extra storage space in a basement or a closet, take the toys that don’t fit in your original space and place them here. Large storage containers can be great to toss toys into. You can bring them out on a rainy day or on a sick day.
If toys do not fit in either your main play area or in this extra toy storage, maybe it’s time to pass them on. Some ideas: place on a buy nothing group, drop off at a donation center, or offer them to friends.
We want to make sure that we are utilizing the space we have without over stuffing!
