These ideas may not work for everyone, but I wanted to share what works for toy organization at our house, especially trying to incorporate the new toys that Santa brought.
I get rid of a few of the older toys that the kids don't play with much anymore, are broken, or missing parts while they are excited about all their new toys. I put them in our designated garage sale box in the storage room so if there is a melt-down because they miss that particular toy, I can get it out again for them. This has only happened once...usually they forget about them instantly.
I am a huge believer in storage bins. Not only does it keep tiny pieces together, it also gives everything a place and limits the toys that get brought out. Now mind you, they don't always get put right away...I usually don't get this organized except maybe once a week. They are kids, after all. It also makes moving a cinch because the movers just pack the bins, and I unpack them at our new home, right onto their shelf.
I also label each bin with the name of what's in it as well as a picture, if possible. That way, my daughter who can't read yet knows what goes in what bin.
For smaller toys, and favorites as well, I make fabric bags with drawstrings. I try and match the fabric to what's inside so that they stay organized that way. It also makes packing for trips or church a breeze because I can just grab the particular bags out of the basket they want, and we're on our way. I also keep a basket for Josh's baby toys as well as a catch-all basket in the basement for those in-between organizing times so it can look tidy in a snap.
Just a few ideas...maybe one or all will work for you!
For more great ideas, check out Scribbit's Winter Bazaar.
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
6 comments:
Thanks for the tips. I spent this morning organizing toys too. Where to put it all.
I have been organizing tons of toys over here too. Amazing how much those kids can get :) I love the fabric tote ideas- thanks!
Great ideas! As your kids get older, they'll (hopefully) be well trained in the whole organization routine.
Amber- I love your bags too! We still have the one you made for Genna when she was a baby! Have you found any Polly Pocket material?
I had to laugh, Genna's sitting on my lap reading my bloglines with me and she recognized your toys right away. Those are Anna's toys, Mom!
Hope you had a fabulous Christmas!
Great ideas! We're in the process of cleaning 'old' toys to bring in the new. This weekend I'm off to WM to buy some storage bins and labels! :) Hope you had a wonderful Christmas! Miss ya!
Oh this is great--I can't handle the clutter that comes from the holidays. Usually I make the kids go through their toys and give a certain number away each year, it keeps things manageable.
Post a Comment