There are very few people in this world that actually enjoy decluttering and clearing stuff out. For most of us, it's a chore that we'd rather avoid. Add kids to the equation and the entire task becomes that much more difficult. Most kids are packrats. They want to hold on to their stuff regardless of whether or not they still use, can wear or even remember what it is for. Suddenly, you're not just cleaning someone else's room for them, you're fighting them on each and every item that you want to get rid of. Keep reading for some tips to help you help your kids declutter.
- Clear things out while they're gone. Often a child only develops an attachment to an item when they realize it's about to be gone. If it's something they haven't played with in a while they may not even miss it. Of course, you always run the risk of getting rid of something they do truly value because you didn't realize how important it was to them. We would recommend erring on the side of caution when deciding what to discard if you go this route.
- Sort while they're gone but give them veto power over the donation pile. This is kind of a variation on the above method designed to help you avoid discarder's remorse. There is a danger with giving children veto power though. What will you do if they decide they simply must keep everything you wanted to get rid of? Your best bet would be offer limited veto power. For example, they can "save" a certain number of items from each pile. Or they can exchange items from your keep pile with items in the donation pile. If you felt something was too worn to donate and it ended up in the trash pile it's probably best not to give them the option to keep it.
- Challenge your child to choose a certain number of items to donate and/or trash. This is our favorite method. Not only does it engage your child in the activity, it also teaches them good habits that can benefit them into adulthood. You can make it a game, offer incentives, whatever works for you to make it fun. This way they also feel like they were in control of the decluttering process as opposed to feeling as though you took their stuff away from them. The key here is that you are teaching your child to declutter and showing them the benefits of the activity.
Decluttering can be quite a job, but there are benefits. Living in an organized, uncluttered space can be its own reward. Keeping your home clutter free can also save you time, money and headaches because it will be easier to locate the things you need when you need them. Stockpile quick easy inventory solution is another time and money saving tool. Entering items into Stockpile is quick and easy. Once entered you'll be able to track items within your home. You can even access your item records when you're on the go because Stockpile is mobile compatible. Never re-buy something you already have at home just because you forgot you already own it. Don't worry about having to replace something just because you can't remember where you put it. Future decluttering projects will be easier as well because you can use purchase dates as a guideline for when things should be gotten rid of. Stockpile, quick easy inventory solution, helping you clean and organize your life one item at a time. Try Stockpile today!
