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Every year before the holidays I do a purge of my children’s stuff. For such tiny humans, their possessions seem to accumulate quickly! The holidays bring family gatherings, extra outfits, and extra toys! Lots and lots of toys.
The key to controlled chaos is to periodically assess the elements that become part of it. I suggest doing this seasonally, but your Winter Purge should be the biggest of the year.
Areas to work through:
Clothes:
- Go through each drawer and closet (it’s okay if you need to separate this task throughout the week).
- Ask yourself three questions:
Does it fit?
Is it free of stains/damages?
Will my child wear it?
3. If the answer to any of these questions is no, donate or sell it. Be realistic and know that you are not wasting money by selling or donating items, you have already spent the money. You are adding value to your life and your children’s lives by making their environment more simplistic and limiting some of the excess.
Next, move on to toys.
Ask yourself similar questions for this space:
Do they play with it?
Is it complete (nothing missing or broken)?
Do they own multiple? (Multiples of toys can be pared down to the most complete set).
- If the answer to any of these questions is no, donate or sell it. Be realistic and know that you are not wasting money by selling or donating items, you have already spent the money. You are adding value to your life and your children’s lives by making their environment more simplistic and limiting some of the excess. You are also making room for the toys they are about to receive.
I perform most of this act with my children to help teach a lesson in giving and need vs. want. Yes, they are little. But if you teach them the ‘why’ behind the action, they get on board quickly. I say phrases repeatedly to help them understand the process and know that when they are done, that’s 100% fine. Some of their toys can disappear without them being aware, but I do want them to know that giving is very important.
These simple questions help.
“Let’s pick some toys to give to kids that may not have as many toys as you.”
“What toy do you not like anymore?”
“Do you have any broken toys?”
“Do you have any toys you’d like to give to someone?”
Do what you can. Do as much as you can. Whatever you end up selling/donating is at least better than not doing it at all. You also may have taught a valuable lesson in giving.
Happy Holidays, Friends!
~Steph