Question from a GON Reader
"How can I manage my kids' toys so they’re not scattered all over the house? It feels like they’re everywhere, no matter how often I pick up!"
-- Stephanie in Tulsa, Oklahoma:
Response from Maria Gracia
Hi Stephanie!
You're definitely not alone in feeling overwhelmed by toy chaos. The good news is, there are some simple strategies to help keep those toys from taking over your home. Here’s what I recommend:
1. Create Toy Zones: Designate specific areas in your home for toys. Maybe it's a corner in the living room or a basket in each room. This helps keep toys contained and makes it easier for you (and your kids) to know where things go.
2. Institute a "One Toy Out at a Time" Rule: This can be a game-changer (in the best way!). Teach your kids to put away the toy they’re playing with before taking out a new one. It might take a little time for them to get used to it, but once it becomes a habit, you’ll notice a big difference in toy clutter!
Of course, there will be times when they want to gather several dolls or stuffed animals for a tea party—and that’s perfectly fine! But there’s no need to have multiple puzzles or board games out at once (those pieces always seem to end up mixed together!). Setting this boundary helps keep things more organized and manageable. 3. Rotate Toys: Not all toys need to be out at once. Rotate them every few weeks by keeping some in storage. This not only reduces clutter but also keeps the toys feeling fresh and exciting when they come back out.
4. Make Clean-Up Fun: Turn clean-up time into a game! Set a
timer for 5 minutes and challenge your kids to pick up as many toys as they can before it buzzes. You’d be surprised how much they can tidy up when there’s a bit of fun involved.
5. Use Clear Bins: Clear, labeled bins can be a lifesaver. They make it easy for your kids to see where their toys belong and also for you to quickly check if everything is put away. 6. Teach Kids Responsibility: Even little ones can help tidy up. Make it part of the daily routine. A quick 5-minute clean-up before meals or bedtime can really help keep things from getting out of hand.
Hang in there! With a little structure and
consistency, you’ll find those toys are much more manageable.
