When organising your kid’s belongings, remember – less is more. Kids outgrow their clothes and even toys. “The average attention span is less than a month,” new mom Apeksha Singh says. “We have too many toys. My kid who is just a year and a half has been pampered by my family and friends. We didn’t realise that we have accumulated so much stuff this past year and a half. Aadyan barely even looks at half his toys any more. I’m just tired of the mess, tired of the clutter, and craving more simplicity,” adds Apeksha. I am sure a lot of you new moms there relate to Apeksha’s sentiments.
Just like adults, the things children surround themselves with, hold a great deal of emotional significance so often it is difficult for them to let go. Decluttering always makes you happy and helps you focus on the things that are of utmost importance – the same implies to kids.
Here are five mom-approved ways to avoid tripping over toys, declutter your space and simplify your life.
Analyse Why And Where The Toys Come From
Babies and kids don’t go shopping, you do. Do you look at everything and want your kid to have it? If yes, then ask yourself what value it brings your child. If your family tends to shower your kids with toys, politely ask them to check with you first. A look at where excess things are coming from may go a long way in solving this problem.
A Dedicated Space
Think a large Ikea container box, a shelf, a large drawer or even a mini closet – limiting where the toys are kept is the best way for you to realise that there is no more room left. This will also help your kids understand that one doesn’t need to own and hoard everything under the sun and if they want to add to the pile they will have to let go of a few things and donate them. This will teach them compassion.
Involve Them In The Process
Teach them the value of decluttering and how holding on to things just decreases the value of the toy. Instead, the very same toy can bring someone else joy.
Declutter Often
Notice your kids, their interests, what catches their eye and what is left catching dust. Purge every three months. Put the clean, unused toys in boxes and donate them.
Interact With Them; Teach Them The Value Of Other Activities
Look for what their interests lie in – it may be sport, dance, art, music anything and get them to explore that more rather than keeping them engaged with a toy. Play a sport with them, sing karaoke, and read to them – this can help you bond with your child, create core memories for you’ll and also keep you away from your tech toys.