Have you ever felt overwhelmed when it comes to your kid’s toys? Like your child’s toys now own your house and everywhere you look you feel like all you see is a clutter of toys? I have figured out a way to minimize your children’s toys without going full-blown minimalistic and giving your child 2 toys! haha. Here’s how you achieve this!
STEP 1: PULL IT ALL OUT
Here you have two options. One, take every toy your child owns and place it in the center of the room. This way you can start to go through your toys and it will help you see exactly what toys your child has, duplicate toys, etc.
The second option is to go section by section. Say you have a toy closet. Just tackle that specific closet if taking everything out overwhelmed you. Tackle it one area at a time. Now with this second method. The KEY to decluttering is removing everything (big or small area) and then sorting through what you have to see exactly what you are going to keep or get rid of.
STEP 2: WHAT TOYS DO YOU GET RID OF?
Start by removing duplicate toys (stuffed animals, dolls, etc). Puzzles or games with missing pieces. Toss toys that are broken or no longer working.
STEP 3: INVOLVE YOUR CHILD
Depending on the age of your child. It may be a good idea to involve your child in the process. That way they feel involved and do not hold any resentment towards you for getting rid of their toys.
It also presents a good teaching opportunity. When I declutter with my toddler. I explain to her that we are donating toys that you have numerous of to children who may not have any toys. This builds generosity and compassion into your child throughout this process.
Now, being a mom of 3 under 3. At this point, I would only involve my toddler who would understand the process of donating, etc. Make your life easier, not harder!
STEP 4: EVERY TOY HAS A HOME
After you sift through what toys you want to keep and what toys you wish to get rid of. Make sure EVERY toy has a home. This is the key to keeping your space organized and clean.
It’s proven that when children have fewer toys. They are not overstimulated. Which will result in your child playing with a specific toy for a longer period. Also, when it comes to cleaning up. If every toy has a home, then it’ll be easier for your child to know exactly where to place them.
TIPS:
If you have the storage space. You can store some of the toys and rotate them. This will also keep your child’s attention and excitement longer. When you bring out the new toys. Your child will become excited since they have not played with that toy over an extended period.
Infant toys. These types of toys are only used for a very specific time frame. Keep it the toy selection simple and store these after your infant grows out of them.
Declutter after Christmas. 5 tips on how to declutter your kid’s toys after Christmas.
Drop below if you have any questions. I would love to help answer them!
