One In, One Out
Some families have a rule that any time a new toy is brought into the house, an old one must be donated to charity. This idea does a few things. First, it controls the actual number of toys in the house and keeps it at a consistent number. Secondly, it teaches children to evaluate which items no longer serve their needs. And third, it encourages children to think of others besides themselves.
With a constant number of toys in the house, it is easier to make sure that the toy clutter does not get out of control. Older toys that are no longer played with can be given new homes and not take up valuable space in the playroom. Although some children may be initially resistant to the idea of giving up a toy to get a new one, they will eventually see the logic and personal satisfaction of helping others.
Everything In Its Place
Organization is the most essential part of keeping children's toys under control. Although buying a huge bin and throwing everything in it may sound appealing on days when Army men and plastic dolls threaten to overtake the family room, it is not a good way to organize children's toys. Consider, instead, bins or baskets that can be covered and placed on shelves.
By having a separate buckets for cars and blocks, children will be able to easily access their toys without dragging everything out. Clearly label each bin with what is inside, so that children can quickly find what they are looking for. If buying new bins is not in the budget, ask family and friends for shoe boxes. Cover the boxes in contact paper or wrapping paper, label them and a new storage container will be ready to be filled with toys. Any container that is chosen should be lightweight enough for children to carry, easy for them to open, and even easier for them to put away.
Daily Clean Up
Five minutes at the end of the day can do wonders for keeping children's toys under control. Give each child a color coded basket or bucket, set the timer for five minutes and have them search the room for their toys. Anything that is theirs goes in their bucket and gets put away in the designated spot. By staying on top of picking up, it is easy to maintain a house that looks presentable even for a family with small children.
By being diligent about the number of toys in the house, parents can keep children's toys under control. Involve the children in the clean up and organization process, so that they may feel invested in keeping their things neat and tidy. Although a task that requires constant attention, keeping children's toys organized is well worth the effort.
Learn more about decorating with large wall sculptures and black coffee wall art from our exclusive designer and staff writer, Alyssa Davis, of Metal-Wall-Art.com.
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3 comments:
AMEN! oh how I wish I had done this all my children's lives!
Great system! Children today are given so much so early, that I wonder if they're learning to be materialistic right from the cradle.
Ya i think you're right..
I agree with your post.
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