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The holidays bring so much joy (and so many toys!), but come January, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the clutter. If you’re staring at a mountain of toys and wondering how to tackle it, you’re not alone. Here’s how to organize your toddler’s toys in a way that keeps your home tidy and your little one happy.
Step 1: Declutter the Old Toys
• Create three piles: Keep, Donate, Toss.
Go through all the toys with a critical eye. What is your toddler no longer interested in? Are there duplicates? Is anything broken or missing pieces?
• Involve your toddler if they’re old enough. This can teach them about generosity, and they’ll feel proud of helping.
Step 2: Rotate Toys
• Too many toys can overwhelm toddlers. Set aside a few toys to keep out and put the rest in a “toy rotation bin.” (an empty diaper box even works great!) Every few weeks, swap out the toys, and they’ll feel new again!
Step 3: Use Storage Solutions That Work
• Bins and baskets: Label them with words or pictures (especially helpful if your toddler isn’t reading yet) to make cleanup simple.
Most of our toys are in the living room on the bottom shelf of one of our tables in large baskets like these.
• Shelves with cubbies: Perfect for categorizing toys like blocks, books, and puzzles.
Depending on your needs, these are a great option. These are a similar, smaller option for a smaller space or less toys.
• Clear containers: Great for small items like cars, figurines, or craft supplies so you can see what’s inside.
These are a great option, or any of these!
• Under-the-bed storage: A sneaky way to tuck away toys you don’t want cluttering the main space.
Step 4: Designate Play Zones
• If your toddler tends to scatter toys everywhere, try creating specific “zones” for different activities, like a block-building area, a reading nook, or an art station.
Step 5: Establish a Daily Cleanup Routine
• Make cleanup time part of your toddler’s daily schedule, like before dinner or bedtime. Turn it into a game by playing music or setting a timer for added fun.
Decluttering and organizing toys not only makes your home more manageable but also helps your toddler develop healthy habits. Start small, take it one step at a time, and enjoy the fresh start!