Tuesday, July 12th, 2022
Did you know that the average home size gets bigger every year? Yet people still find themselves needing a bigger house because they're running out of room. Could it be that maybe we really need to get rid of some of our stuff?
July 15th is National Give Something Away Day, and it’s the perfect time to declutter and give your family some breathing room. Having an organized home means you feel calm, comfortable, and at peace within your four walls. You also will likely be much more productive and efficient since you aren't digging through a mountain of things to find your car keys.
Something that can be extra challenging to pare down are your kid’s toys. It can be challenging for kids to let go of the things they love. And for parents, it’s sometimes hard to let go because of the memories associated with every stuffed animal, toy car, and doll.
Three Valuable Tips For Organizing With Your Kids
Here are some tips to help you and your children get on the same page when it comes to organizing and cleaning the house.1. Kids Get A Say In What Goes
Make sure you let your kids be part of the process, from toddlers to teens. When kids have a say and are involved, they are likely to stick with the plan. So, gather up all the toys and let your kids help you sort them into piles.Have an empty box at the ready and let your child go through each item. Gently discuss the things with your child. But, let the final decision be theirs, don't sneak a bunch of toys into a garbage bag when your kids are at school.
2. Let Children Create Their Own Organizing System
For older children, they can write out the labels, etc. Don’t force your kids to store their belongings in a particular way. Remember, it needs to work for them if you want it to stay that way. The same goes for adults when organizing spaces like the kitchen, living room, and bathrooms. It doesn’t matter how good a space looks; if the system doesn’t work for you and your lifestyle, it isn’t a viable system.
3. Be Honest When Deciding What To Get Rid Of
When you’re trying to decide what to keep and part with, think about how you use it and how it makes you feel. If you haven’t used it in months, it’s time to go. If it doesn’t make you happy, it’s time for it to go.
Also, it should go if it no longer adds value to your life. For example, try removing old toys that your kids have outgrown to make space for more enriching, engaging toys. Ask your child, “Do you play with this anymore? You know, you have some new toys now, and a little boy or girl that doesn’t have many toys would love this.”
Organizing and clearing out your space with your children makes your home a better place, and it’s a valuable lesson for your kids. It can teach them essential skills moving forward and be a learning opportunity in compassion and giving. For more fantastic learning opportunities, check out all of the tremendous resources Learn with OjO has to offer.
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