Toys, Toys, Toys!!!
Posted at 6:30 am on March 29, 2010 by Farrah
Usually when I work with a client with kids, toys are the main issue. A good sort and purge (and donate) usually does a big portion of the clutter control. Once we have pared it down to only what is age-appropriate and still loved, we will then start the containerizing process. Below are some of my top tips and pictures:
1. LABEL, LABEL, LABEL. The lack of labels is the most common mistake I see and leads to poor maintenance.
2. For pre-readers, label containers with pictures. Even if the containers are clear, labels will aid in pick up and make it harder for somebody to put the wrong toy in there! Use clear shelf paper to adhere them or tie on with a ribbon.
3. Easy access is key. Make little ones self-sufficient by putting things at their level and making bins light enough for them to move.
4. Get buy-in from your kids by involving them in the decisions.
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This example was a mess created by a remodel which then required a rethinking of the storage. I love the toy storage from IKEA It’s flexible and customizable.
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In this small room, there was simply too much and no play room available to move some of it to. In addition, there were some containers without labels, but not many good places to keep the containers.
Often times, we don’t need to buy a system to make the toys work. We can reuse what you’ve already tried and make that work well. See more toys and kids’ rooms on my web site for more ideas.
Do you have a particular toy dilemma? Comment here to share and I’ll respond to you with some ideas.
Destination Organization founder Jamie Martin has a passion for helping others and fulfills this passion through her career as a professional organizer. After starting a family and deciding corporate life was longer for her, Jamie sought out the flexibility of being an entrepreneur. She found her new career in professional organizing. Jamie has had life-long training as an organizer, always being the one in her circle of friends, family and co-workers to be asked to solve an organizational dilemma or act as project manager. She continues her education through reading, networking and attending events through the National Association of Professional Organizers.
Her desire to help others simplify their lives and reach their personal or career goals drives her as a professional organizer. She combines her hands-on organizational skills with compassion, neutrality, confidentiality and humor in order to guide her clients to a peaceful and productive life. Jamie imparts structure and process, while keeping her clients focused so they are not overwhelmed with the whole project. She strives for maintainable, real-life, custom solutions for her client’s organizational needs.
You can find Jamie @ www.destorg.com or on Facebook.
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