She interviews Cristin from Simplified Bee to help the tackle the never ending job of organizing kids rooms. Great ideas and love all the decor! See the full post here http://networkedblogs.com/fu7Yk
Cristin from Simplified Bee offers a few tips to keeping kids rooms organized. Cristin is a busy mom of two girls, and a professional organizer too. She’s a real pro when it comes to this topic.
“Keeping kids’ rooms organized is a challenge for most parents. How many of us have cleaned our child’s room only to find it turned upside down in minutes. And if you have a collector {dolls, rocks or toy cars} it can be especially painful to keep the space neat. Here are some helpful tips to help organize kids’ rooms:
Before you purchase baskets, bins and furnishings, take inventory of all clothing, toys and books in your child’s room. Start by sorting clothing based on condition {torn, stained, etc.}, size {too small} and use {winter jackets, sports/dance}. Donate, sell or giveaway clothing that your child has outgrown and is still in good condition. Discard all clothing that is torn or stained beyond repair. Place all clothing that your child has not grown into yet in a clear plastic container and label {child’s name and size clothing}.
These bins should be stored on the top shelf of the child’s closet or in another area of your home. For clothing your child is currently wearing, it’s best to hang coats, sweaters and dressy outfits. Designate drawers in a dresser for socks and underwear, tee shirts, pants and sport or dance uniforms.
As for the toys, the process is very similar. Sort all toys into groups. Donate, giveaway, keep, toss or store the toy depending on its condition, size and how often it’s used or loved. For example, you may want to store toys that are larger in a playroom or garage.
If age appropriate, get your child to help you sort items. They may enjoy the process and learn why organizing and storing items into groups makes it easier to find items when we need them.
I am a huge fan of vertical storage options such as shelves and bookcases. Please make sure however, that they are secured to the wall for your child’s safety.
Organizing from bottom to top based on the child’s age and interest is the best way to get started. Smaller children will enjoy having age appropriate toys and books at their level. And if they can take them down, they can usually put them back. Save higher shelves for items that are fragile, nostalgic or toys used less often.
Shelving units are also a great area to incorporate and utilize compartmentalized storage products such as baskets, bins and pails. Before purchasing storage bins, be sure to measure the height, depth and width of the shelves to ensure you buy the right size and number. Sort toys, books or collections based on type and designate a bin for each group.
Labeling each bin {i.e. books, Barbies, Legos, etc.} might make sense for older children. Toddlers however, might struggle to just assist in putting toys away. If the label becomes too much of an issue, then simply aim at getting the toys put away rather than in the correct bin.
Every bedroom needs a trash can and a laundry hamper and kid’s rooms are no exception. Children can learn at a young age where to throw tissues and put dirty clothing. Invest in a hamper that allows your child to divide his laundry into darks and whites. This will help keep the floors clean of dirty laundry and will help educate them on how to wash clothing properly. In terms of trash cans, purchase one that can be wiped down easily and is small enough for a child to carry to the garbage can. Children should be educated on what is trash and what items can be recycled.
Hooks are another great way to help organize your kids’ room. With so many cute styles to choose from, I’m sure you will find one that goes with your room’s decor. Hang hooks on the back of the door, in the closet or on a wall. In any case, hang it at the level the child can reach it when possible. This will make them feel more important and in turn want to use them!
Regardless of your child’s age, make it a daily routine to clean their room. Kids over the age of about six should be able to clean their room with little help from parents. Toddlers will need some assistance. In any case, schedule a time each day {ours is before bedtime stories} to pick up the room. Putting toys and clothing away at the end of the day will allow for a more peaceful bedtime.
Reward your children for their work with praise, hugs or stickers. Track their progress on a chart or add the task to their weekly allowance. If you value and recognize your child’s hard work, they will be more apt to clean their room the next day. It’s a win-win for everyone!”
Well said Cristin, thank you!!
The Centsational Girl also has some great photos and tips of her own organizing savy self! Be sure to check them out!!
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