5 Tips For Decluttering Toys Ahead Of The Holiday Season
The holidays are quickly approaching, so if you are a parent, now is the perfect time to start decluttering toys ahead of getting an influx of new things. Head to the playroom and your kids’ bedroom(s) to start purging the things they no longer use to make room for the new and exciting things coming their way.
5 Tips for decluttering toys ahead of the holiday season
Start alone
Start by going through the toys your kids have obviously grown out of. Put away anything sentimental that you want to keep as part of a “grandparent box” (toys that mean something to you and your kids that can be played with by future generations, nieces and nephews or friends younger children) and add the rest to a pile for donation. From there, group the remaining toys and books into categories, making it easy for kids to see what they have, what items are similar, and what they might be missing.
2. Involve the kids:
At that point, you can bring your kids in. The first thing is to let go of anything broken, that’s an easy way to start. It won’t overwhelm them since the toy or book is not in working order. Before you think about putting things away let the kids decide what they want.
3. Don't decide what to get rid of, only decide what to keep
For kids especially, it’s important to figure out what they want rather than what they don’t. If there is a toy you don’t like but that they love, don't pressure them to get rid of it or try to make the decision for them. Remind them that new things are on their way and that they have to make space.
4. Donate or sell the things in good shape
Allow your kids to be a part of the donation or sales process. If they know the toys are going to someone else to be played with and loved they’ll be more likely to part with the things they don’t use.
5. Create systems and space to allow for new things.
This could mean setting up a toy rotation. It doesn’t have to be fancy or take up a lot of space. Get a few bins and put toys that the kids aren’t ready to get rid of but aren’t their current favorites and stash them somewhere out of the way but accessible. That could mean a closet, under the stairs, or in the basement. You can rotate every couple of months so the toys stay fresh and exciting. Remember that kids don’t need much, and having too many options actually makes them play with things less.
Bonus tip:
If you are worried about what other people will give your kids, adding to the mess you’ve just cleared out. Make lists! Most people appreciate guidance for gifts for kids. Don’t be afraid to ask for experiences, gift cards, money for schooling, etc. Some people will disregard what you’ve asked for but creating boundaries is never a bad thing.
If you need more help decluttering your home check out my latest guidebook.
Happy Organizing!
-Jocelyn