How did you go with toys last week? I have heard some kiddies really got into it, especially when they heard they might be making way for more in the next couple of weeks!
Now for the games – board games, card games, computer games, you name it!
This is another opportunity to get the kids involved. Provide them with the opportunity to make decisions about their games and also use it as an opportunity to chat with them again about those less fortunate who may not be so lucky this Christmas day.
So how do we decide what stays and what goes?
Essentially the same as toys. If they are broken, unloved (or too loved), incomplete and age inappropriate games should go. If they are collecting dust on a shelf, in the garage or the top of the wardrobe, dust them off and pass them on. If you have computer games for old technology that you no longer own, you guessed it, they gotta go!
If they are old enough, ask your kids which games 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.
A little tip for storing your board games – pop a rubber band around the box to make sure it stays together them store them on their side on a shelf. When you want one, you can simply slide the one out that you want and also return it easily without disturbing all of the others. This is so much easier than stacking as you always want the one near the bottom don’t you!
Computer games should be stored near the computer they are used with. The further away we store something from the point of use, the less likely it will be returned. You might also consider ditching the cases and storing them in a folder if space is tight. It is worth noting though that if you are thinking about selling them on in the future or trading them for the latest game, you should keep the cases as they have a higher value.
What do I do with the ones that no longer have a purpose for me?
If your items are in good condition, you could sell, swap or donate them.
- Sell or Swap:
o Swap with your friends or family
o Gumtree
o Facebook Marketplace
o Ebay
o Garage Sale
o Sell to a second-hand computer games EB Games, CeX or Gametraders or trade towards a new game (don’t get your hopes up for a huge return though).
- Donate options:
o Lifeline
o Charity shops such as the Salvos or Vinnies
o Green Shed (Mitchell or Mugga Lane)
o Let’s Recycle Canberra (Hume)
o Community groups
o Community libraries
o After school care and play groups
If the games 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