How to handle the toy mess
Kids Toys- Handling The Mess and The Constant Pressure to Buy
Be honest, how much time do you think you spend running around each day cleaning up your kids toys? Even just clearing out our childrens bed before putting them to sleep can end up being the most frustrating part of our day.
The reality is, kids don’t need many toys, they just need a space to let them be creative. Yes some toys are educational, and items such as bikes and sandpits are going to be used over and over - these are great! I’m talking about the overflowing, never ending gathering of McDonalds toys, Barbie bits and pieces, hot wheels, or if you have a little girl then you probably have many MANY bows and hair ties. So let's talk about some ways around this or some ideas on how to control the dreaded “toy mess”.
The Itsy Bitsy
Barbies are a great example here.. The shoes, dresses, accessories end up being put in 500 different spots around the house. For toys like this, try getting an under-the-bed storage container (if it has wheels, even better). Within that container you can have little boxes or organisation compartments for each item to have a “place”. This is the key to any toy brought into the house, make sure they have a “place” to always be put back. This makes it super clear and easy for your children to understand where things need to go at the end of the day.
The Bedroom
Less is so much more when it comes to toys in the bedroom. It helps keep the bedroom a place of sleep and rest, rather than energetic play. Yes this may mean you will have more toys in the living area but it’s worth it if it helps your child get much needed sleep… which means you get sleep too!
The Monthly Cull
Either do this at night (and slowly if your child tends to notice) OR get your child involved. Have three piles; “Keep”, “Maybe” and “Donate”. Explain to your little one that the “donate” pile is for children who don’t get many toys and who would absolutely love to have some. Often as parents we end up being caught in the memories of the item rather than if you children actually need it anymore. Take a photo if it is something that you value, and then let it go if it no longer serves a purpose in your house.
Second hand doesn’t mean dirty
There are many toys that kids move on from quickly or don’t even bother playing with, usually christmas gifts, birthday gifts etc. Consider passing these on through social media to friends and family, or even just on facebook marketplace! If you are wanting new toys, this is a great place to start looking rather than forking out more money on brand new items.
Most importantly, choose toys with purpose and meaning - ones that stimulate your child’s mind and that create learning experiences. Provide an adequate amount of toys for your child, but don’t do as I have and overwhelm your child with too much ‘stuff’ causing both of you to become frustrated. As we all know, most little kids have more fun playing with the box the toy came in while the new toy sits abandoned on the floor.