Divide & Conquer

Kids and organization typically don’t go hand-in-hand—especially if you live in a home with active boys and girls with a lot of toys and gear! However, with problem-solution thinking tailored to your kids’ lifestyles, closets can be orderly in less than one weekend. Start with five bins, each with a label pocket for the day of the week. Put M-F outfits in the bins and refill them on laundry day. Activity gear, such as soccer or swimming items, can be stored in bins labeled by activity. Keep a tall laundry bin on the closet floor to capture dirty clothes. Because kids grow fast use a clear, lidded bin, also placed on the closet floor, for receiving outgrown clothing—when the bin is full remove it and store or donate the clothes.

Organizing Tools

Fun Zone

The number of books and toys in a kid’s room increases every birthday and Christmas and can overwhelm their space if not edited and controlled. Follow these tips to keep playtime orderly:

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• Edit: It’s a good idea to assess the toy box and reading area for items the child has outgrown and no longer needs. Allow them to keep a few items as keepsakes and donate the rest to children in need.

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• Book Ledge: Book ledges are a great way to display favorite reads so the covers show. Try stacking multiple shelves or place them side by side for a custom book ledge that holds the number and sizes
of books your child has.

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• Toy Cubbies: Putting favorite toys in open storage makes it easier to take them out and put them away. Place a bin in one or more of the cubbies for loose items such as large puzzle pieces, building blocks, doll clothing and playsets with small pieces.

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• Play Perimeter: Create a special spot in your child’s room that teaches how organization works. Anchor a rug with a reading chair next to the book and toy storage pieces to define the space. Keep toys confined to the rug for easy cleanup.

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• Pick-up Time: Use an alarm clock and set the timer for when it’s time to pick up and put away toys and books. Make it a race to beat the clock.