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How to Declutter Your Kids’ Toys (When You Have a Lot of Kids)

As any parent of multiple children will tell you, toys can quickly take over every corner of your home. From action figures to dolls, building blocks to stuffed animals, the accumulation can feel relentless. However, there is hope! With a little organisation and strategy, you can reclaim your space without the tears. Here’s a guide on how to effectively declutter your kids’ toys, even when you have a bustling household full of little ones.

1. Set Aside Time to Tackle the Task

Decluttering is not a job for a rushed afternoon. Schedule a dedicated time when you can devote your full attention to the task. A weekend or a quiet time during the week when the children are occupied is ideal. It may also be helpful to involve the kids in the process — making it a family activity can encourage them to take ownership of their belongings.

2. Gather Supplies

Before you begin, equip yourself with some essential supplies:

• Bags or Boxes: Designate one for toys to keep, another for items to donate, and a separate one for rubbish.
• Labels: Consider using labels to help categorise the toys, especially if your children are old enough to understand what goes where.
• Cleaning Supplies: Wipes or a cloth to clean toys before storing them can be a great finishing touch.

3. Involve the Children

When decluttering, it’s essential to involve your kids in the process. This not only helps them learn about organisation and sharing but may also ease the emotional attachment they may have to certain toys. Consider the following approaches:

• Talk About Sharing: Explain the importance of donating toys to children who are less fortunate. This can help your kids feel good about letting go of items they no longer play with.
• Create Categories Together: Ask your children to help sort their toys into categories such as keep, donate, and recycle. This can be a fun way to reminisce about favourite toys while also making decisions about what to keep.

4. Perform a Toy Audit

As you sort through the toys, ask the following questions:

• How Often Do They Play With It? If a toy has been untouched for several months, it may be time to say goodbye.
• Is it Broken or Missing Parts? Any damaged toys that cannot be repaired should go straight into the rubbish bag.
• Does it Spark Joy? Encourage your children to consider whether the toy brings them happiness and whether it’s worth the space it occupies.

5. Create Designated Spaces

Once you’ve sorted through the toys, it’s time to organise what’s left:

• Storage Solutions: Invest in storage bins, shelving, or boxes to keep toys organised. Transparent bins with labels can help children find what they need easily.
• Rotation System: Consider a toy rotation system, where only a few toys are available at a time. This can pique their interest and make staying organised more manageable.
• Designated Play Areas: If space allows, create specific zones in the home for different types of play (e.g. arts and crafts, building toys, etc.). This encourages awareness about where toys should go and helps to keep them organised.

6. Establish a Routine

To prevent another overwhelming build-up of toys, establish a routine for maintenance. A few ideas include:

• Regular Check-Ins: Schedule monthly or quarterly check-ins to reassess toy collections. This simple practice can help keep clutter manageable.
• Incorporate Decluttering Into Playtime: Teaching children to put toys away after playtime not only encourages responsibility but also aids in reducing clutter.
• Reward System: Consider implementing a reward system for children who regularly maintain their toy spaces. A small incentive can motivate them to keep things tidy.

7. Be Honest with Family and Friends

If family and friends are considering gifts for your children, don’t hesitate to communicate your desire for fewer toys. Suggest experiences instead, such as trips to the zoo, theatre tickets, or a new book, which often provide lasting memories and reduce physical clutter.

Conclusion

Decluttering your children’s toys when you have a busy household may seem daunting, but with a thoughtful approach, it can be an achievable and even enjoyable task. Emphasise teamwork, communication, and organisation to foster a space that encourages creativity and play. Remember, the key is not only to declutter, but to create a nurturing environment where toys are cherished rather than overcrowded. Happy decluttering!

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