By waltersmith As every parent knows, it is sometimes too much of a project to keep a house well-organized with children. Toys go off in all directions like confetti, snacks create trails through the house, and laundry magically seems to multiply overnight.
However, you can make a more organized living space that works for your family with a few practical strategies as directed by Serenity Living by Bell, LLC.
This blog sheds light on the tips that would inculcate the idea of creating a home space that is ideal for a home with kids.
Craft and Create Designated Spaces
Designate a place for everything. One of the secrets of an organized home is designating a space for everything. For children, this means a designated play-toy space, a designated book space, and a space for arts and crafts supplies.
Use Clear Storage Solutions
Clear bins work well for toys. You can categorize things by grouping them into different categories. That way it’s easier for your child to put things in the right place.
- Shelving Units
Low-shelving units are ideal for children. It is easy for them to put things away, and this encourages them to take responsibility for their belongings.
- Designate a “Drop Zone”
Pick a spot in the house where those things that always seem to be out get dropped. These may include shoes, backpacks, and coats. A great solution might be a bench with hooks and a basket at the end to keep everything organized yet out of the way.
Cleaning as a Game
Many times getting kids to pick up is like pulling teeth. And yet, a chore can become a game if it is having fun.
- Set a Timer
Challenge your kids to pick up as many toys as they can within a certain time. This creates urgency and makes cleaning a fun competition.
- Sing a Cleanup Song
Engage the kids in a clean-up song or their favorite tune while cleaning this may cheer them up and help make the whole process fun for the party involved.
Routine establishment
Kids like routine; having a clean-up routine keeps your home in order.
- Daily Chore Chart
Let each kid take part of the house or space that fits his or her ability. This way, the little ones can put toys away, older kids can make their beds or help with their laundry, and so on.
- Deep Cleaning one time per week
Designate some time each week for deeper cleaning. You can include your kids also and give them work according to the skills they possess so it’s a family activity, too.
Minimalism
When it comes to kids’ belongings, less is probably beautiful. The more they have, the more complicated it would be to keep things organized. Be sure to frequently declutter.
Implement a routine of reviewing toys, clothes, and other things. Assign the task to your children about what they no longer wish to play with or wear anymore. It keeps clutter out of the house and also teaches the child valuable lessons about letting go.
- Adopt the “One In, One Out” Principle
This means that for any new toy or clothing item coming into the house, remove an old one so that there’s a balance and nothing starts accumulating.
Use Vertical Space
Floor space in homes with kids can quickly disappear under a maze of toys. It’s possible to keep things organized without having to use precious square footage by using vertical space.
- Install Shelves
Less frequently used items stay on high shelves, and those that are more frequently used stay at kids’ level so they can access items. This encourages independence without clutter on the floor.
- Wall Hooks and Pegboards
Backpacks, hats, and coats hang on wall hooks; art supplies hang on the pegboard. All items are in your face, easy to access, and save so much space.
Place Cleaning Supplies in an Accessible Place
It is easier to teach children to clean up when they have child-friendly cleaning supplies.
- Mini Cleaning Kits
Child-friendly cleaning kit with a mini or small broom, dustpan, and non-toxic wipes. You can teach them how to use them properly, then encourage them to perform some small cleaning tasks.
- Cleaning in Play
Turn cleaning into a game by pretending to be characters or through imaginative play. You can pretend to be superheroes who will clean the house to save the day!
Be an Example
Children learn by observing their parents. If you model organized behavior, your children are most likely to do the same.
- Show Your Organization Habits
Let your children observe the ways you organize your belongings. Engage them in the process and let them know why it is important for them.
- Praise and Reinforce Good Habits
Whenever your child is taking the initiative to clean up or to assist in organizing, praise and encourage him or her. Such reinforcement can inspire him or her to continue such habits.
Involve Your Children
Involving your children in the organization of their space helps them develop a sense of responsibility for their belongings.
- Ask them to pick some storage solutions
Take your children to the shop and buy them storage solutions. Let them pick bins or baskets in colors and designs they enjoy. When they are involved in making decisions regarding the organization, they become more responsible about it.
- Discuss the Importance of Organization
Explain to your children why it is necessary to maintain cleanliness. Explain to them how an organized space makes it possible for all family members to enjoy dwelling in your home.
Conclusion
Keeping an organized home with kids requires a lot of patience and consistency and you should always keep in mind that the idea of perfection doesn’t exist.
It’s actually about creating a home where your family thrives with its love for one another. These practical tips by Serenity Living by Bell, LLC help balance out family life and home organization to make your home a haven for everyone in the household,
