Step Three: Maintain Order (No, really)
Ok, so now that the hard part of clearing the clutter and stowing the stuff is out of the way, it’s time to set some simple ground rules to help make staying tidy and organized a part of each day.
In addition to the usual "put it away when you're done", I find that having a "Morning Pick-up Routine" and an "Evening Pick-up Routine" really helps us a lot.
This will help them to stay ahead of any messes that would have otherwise accumulated during the week making it one large project to tackle over the weekend. That’s no fun!
Speaking of “staying ahead of messes“, here’s a tip inside of a tip.
Set up a "Donation Station" in a place where everyone has access. Whatever works best for your family, a hall closet, laundry room, garage, etc.
Whenever family members come across something that they no longer want or use, it goes into the “Donation Box“. When the box is full, drop it off at your local donation center.
Your family will benefit in 3 ways:
1.) You enjoy a less cluttered home
2.) You help other families
3.) You get a tax deduction (just be sure to ask for a receipt)
Everyone’s a winner!
Don't worry if your child’s bedroom doesn't exactly look like a page torn from the latest Pottery Barn Kids catalog. (A girl can always dream right?)
That's not the goal. What’s important is that they learn to be responsible for their own things. A valuable lesson that will serve them well for years to come.
What's your secret to helping your kiddos stay organized?
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