In order to make room for new holiday presents, it’s time to PURGE and organize your playroom! Getting a handle on the toy situation now ensures that when the new gifts arrive, they actually have a home to go to.
Start by getting rid of toys that are broken, missing pieces, or that your family has simply outgrown. We love getting kids involved in this process! It’s a wonderful way to teach them about letting go of what they don’t need and giving to those who have less.
Sometimes it can be hard for a child to let go of a toy they were once excited about. In those moments, ask your kids: “What would Santa think if he came down the chimney today?” He might think he’s already been there and move on!
The “Experience” Alternative
Did you know that the U.S. has only 3.1% of the world’s children but consumes 40% of the world’s toys? This year, think about gifting your children experiences instead of more “stuff.” Consider:
- A membership to the zoo
- An art class
- A day pass at a trampoline park
Why Kids Actually Prefer Less Stuff
It sounds crazy, but kids really do prefer to have less. Have you ever watched a child play in a room that is organized? They can easily find the book they want you to read or run straight to the home of their favorite Lego set.
Now, imagine a child excited to show you a toy, but they quickly become frustrated when they realize it’s buried under a mountain of other things. When the playroom is chaotic, playtime becomes chaotic. An organized, tidy space is much more conducive to creativity and imagination!
How to Tackle the Playroom Purge
Use these four steps to reduce the volume before the holidays:
- Check the Shelves: Can any stuffed animals collecting dust be donated? Encourage your kids to pass them on so other children can love them.
- Edit the Legos: How many Legos do they really need? Many children would love to find a bag of mixed Legos at a thrift store! The sooner they are donated, the better—other parents can even pick them up as Christmas gifts.
- Refresh Art Supplies: Check for empty markers or dried-out glue. These can be replenished as stocking stuffers, while unused supplies can be donated.
- The “Hand-Me-Down” Cycle: If you have younger kids and want to save toys for them, pack them up and store them elsewhere for now. Reintroduce them when they are age-appropriate, and keep the cycle moving until your kids are ready to donate them for good.
Let Us Help You Make Room for Magic
Too many toys can distract children and prevent them from developing their creativity. A simplified, organized space gives them the room they need to truly play.
Don’t have enough time to purge your playroom before Santa comes? Let us handle the heavy lifting! At Getting it Done Organizing, we can help you sort, purge, and create a sustainable system for your toys so that Christmas morning is a joy, not a headache.
Click here to schedule your Playroom Reset and let’s get your home ready for the holidays!
