Help! I'm a Minimalist, My Child is a Maximalist
8 Ways to Corral the Kids' Stuff
Erika Ward
August 4, 2011
From the moment you step through my front door, you know that children outnumber the adults in my home. For the past four years, toys and playthings have overrun almost every room of our home. There are even water toys in my shower.
This is the norm for many families as parents have accepted that it's just the way it is. As for me, I've had enough. The easiest solution to my problem would be to move into the dog's house, but he doesn't have the necessary closet space.
Instead of taking the easy way out I'm grabbing the bull by the horns and taking my own advice. I'm teaching my children how to subdue their clutter. Won't you join me?
This is the norm for many families as parents have accepted that it's just the way it is. As for me, I've had enough. The easiest solution to my problem would be to move into the dog's house, but he doesn't have the necessary closet space.
Instead of taking the easy way out I'm grabbing the bull by the horns and taking my own advice. I'm teaching my children how to subdue their clutter. Won't you join me?
Closet. If your child has a standard-sized closet, you'll notice pint-sized clothing do not require much space. Slide clothing to one side of the closet; on the other side add shelving and baskets to corral wayward toys.
Cubbies. Take cues from their teacher. Everything in your child's classroom has a place, from markers and crayons to cubbies for their coats and backpacks. Show your children how to employ the same organization skills at home. Label boxes so they know exactly where their items are. Clear bins are great for little ones who don't know how to read yet.
Under the bed. Underbed storage is an excellent way to keep toys accessible to children while preserving precious floor space.
Under the bench. You may be surprised to learn that your kitchen offers a storage solution for kids' stuff, too. If you are planning for banquette seating, be sure to include doors under the cushion to store supplies. This is an especially smart solution for crafty kiddos who typically work at the kitchen table.
Built-ins. Install built-ins in your child's room. When storage starts to become an issue again, it is a sign that it's time to edit. Allow your children to assist you in removing items they have outgrown. This helps to keep shelving safe and your investment in good condition.
Play space. If space permits, dedicate a room for your children's playthings. When children have a place to call their own, they tend to migrate there.
Bins. Family rooms are for family, children included. Even if your child has a dedicated playspace, include a bin for special toys they hold dear.
Baskets. As much as I prohibit toys in my bedroom, somehow they always find a way past the door. Attractive baskets like these can easily be incorporated into your room's decor to temporarily house stray toys.
Next: More ideas for great kids' rooms
Next: More ideas for great kids' rooms
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