Written by Melanie McConnell
Before you have more stuff coming into your home, especially for kids, take this time to really go through all of their belongings. It is best to do the first round of letting go with your kids in the room. They can tell you what can stay and what can go. Later, do another round when they’re not around. I think it’s essential to have them involved, so they’re taught early and develop this habit for themselves. However, they don’t always part with items very well, and if it’s something they never touch and you don’t see them using, it’s going when they’re not around! Most of the time, they never even notice. This is an excellent time of year to donate these items you’re getting rid of to a local organization that could use them or a family in need! Or sometimes grandparents want some toys for their house and will gladly take them.
Should it stay or should it go?
Dolls, Figurines, and Stuffed Animals. If they’re looking worn or have seen better days, it may be time to toss. Also, pull any that your child has moved on from in interest or outgrown, as well as any possible doubles.
Electronics. Match up charge cords to the item they came with and toss any extras, labeling the kept cords. Sell any items your kids are no longer using and recycle the ones that don’t work anymore.
Arts & Crafts. Have your kids test their pens and markers, tossing out any that have dried out, along with overly worn out crayons, dried up clay or dough, old slime, and barely-there paints. Flip through any art books or notepads and recycle if there’s hardly an empty page.
Books, Movies, and Personal Items. Pull any books or movies they’ve outgrown. Feel
free to save a favorite book or 2 or any with personal notes in them for memory boxes. Have them help you take a dig through any personal items, including those for sports or hobbies, and get rid of what they’re no longer using, interested in, or if it doesn’t fit.
With all of these, it’s also up to you whether it’s something to be saved and put away for younger siblings when the timing is right.
Melanie McConnell is a Professional Organizer and the owner of Mello Spaces. She helps busy professionals and parents get the organized home of their dreams. Check out her website www.mellospaces.com and follow her on Instagram: @mellospaces
Florena Davies is a Professional Organizer and Owner of Organize by Flo. She uses her experience as a wife and mother of 2 to create real life organizational systems and changes for work and home that allow our 2 worlds to co-exist and 'Flo" together. Check out her website at https://www.organizebyflo.com/ and on Instagram @organizebyflo.
Marybeth Welty helps women create calm and healthy homes and lives. With over 12 years of experience in organizing, interior design, sustainable building, and mindful living, Marybeth is passionate about improving your mental health, your work, your relationships, and supporting the life of your dreams by starting with where you live, your home. You can book a free meeting with her at https://sustainablelifestylesolutions.com/20-min-free and connect with her on Instagram at @this_sustainable_lifestyle.