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Let’s face it: keeping kids’ toys organized is like trying to hold water in your hands—it’s a constant, often futile battle. But with a few simple strategies, you can at least make the chaos manageable (and maybe even trick yourself into believing you’ve got it under control). Here’s a low-stress, realistic guide to organizing toys—no Pinterest-level expectations here, just good old-fashioned practicality.
Embrace the Chaos (But Contain It)
The first thing to accept is that kids are messy. Their toys will inevitably end up scattered across the house, and that’s OK. Instead of fighting the chaos, contain it. Bins, baskets, and even those plastic tubs work wonders. Label them if you want, but honestly, just having a place where things are vaguely supposed to go is half the battle.
Pro tip: If it fits in a bin, it’s organized. That’s your new mantra.
Create Zones for Play and Storage
Designate specific areas for different types of toys. Have a corner (or half a room if you’re feeling ambitious) for LEGOs, another for arts and crafts, and a separate spot for stuffed animals and dolls. This gives the toys a home and gives your kids an idea of where things should go when playtime is over (in theory, at least).
Bonus points if you can keep noisy toys in one zone and quiet ones in another—hello, peace and quiet!
Rotate Toys to Keep Things Fresh
You don’t need every toy your kid owns out at the same time. In fact, fewer toys out mean less mess. Rotate toys every few weeks to keep things fresh. It’ll feel like Christmas morning when they rediscover that action figure they forgot about. Plus, it gives you an excuse to quietly donate the toys they never seem to miss.
Bonus tip: The fewer toys out, the easier it is for them to clean up (or for you to clean up if we’re being real).
Keep It Kid-Friendly
If your toy storage solutions are too complicated, kids won’t use them. Opt for open bins, low shelves, and simple systems that make it easy for your little ones to help. If they can grab a toy themselves, they can (in theory) put it back themselves, too.
Simple, right? Well, at least it sounds good.
Stay tuned for my next blog, about maintaining your organizing efforts.
Photo: Pixabay