I have made a little change to the schedule and the next two weeks we will be focusing on making way for Christmas, specifically toys and games.
This is an opportunity to get the kids involved. Provide them with the opportunity to make decisions about their toys and games and also use it as an opportunity to chat with them about those less fortunate who may not be so lucky this Christmas day.
So how do we decide what stays and what goes?
Broken, unloved (or too loved), incomplete and age inappropriate toys should go. If you can’t close the door/lid or things keep falling off shelves, pare back to what fits comfortably within these spaces.
If they are old enough, ask your kids which toys they have grown out of or don’t use any more. This helps you with any guilt you may feel, but also empowers them to make decisions about their stuff, helps them to set some limits and provides them with valuable life skills all at the same time.
What do I do with the keepers?
First and foremost, make sure they have a home. Everything must have a defined space to support order. It also means that you know exactly where to find them when you need them.
Consider using tubs, shelving and specialty organisers to contain toys. This is also a useful tool in establishing a physical limit. For example, a great maintenance tool is that if you can’t close the lid, something has to go.
To assist the kids in keeping things tidy, label your containers. Include a picture for the younger ones.
You can also cycle through toys – put some away and switch them over every 3-6 months. That keeps things fresh for your kids and also minimises the volume in your living areas at any one time.
What do I do with the ones that no longer have a purpose for me?
You know what some of your options are for selling and swapping your items now and given the time of the year, I really want to focus on donation options.
- Givit (subscribe to receive a weekly email of items in need)
- Lifeline
- Green Shed (Mitchell or Mugga Lane)
- Let’s Recycle Canberra (Hume)
- Charity shops such as the Salvos or Vinnies
- Community groups
- Community libraries
Please check with your preferred charity what they will accept and ensure the toys are in good working order and clean before dropping them off. Some organisations don’t accept stuffed toys due to hygiene reasons.
If the toys are broken, incomplete etc. they will need to be recycled, or as a last resort, go to landfill. You should check your local government or council website for more information about what items can be recycled. For my friends in Canberra, visit the ACT Waste and Recycling Guide here.
How did you go? Feel free to share your successes, challenges and tips on our Facebook page.
Happy decluttering!
Melissa x