Helping your kids get organized

It can be a frustrating battle when you attempt to “organize” your kids. Many times they are reluctant to change, and all the containers you buy and systems you create go unused. Helping a child (young or teen) achieve balance and order in their surroundings cannot be done by sheer force. They need to be actively involved in every aspect of the process and then given expectations for how their things will be taken care after the initial cleanse is complete. -First, let them purge with you. Ask the hard questions, like when was the last time they really wore that article of clothing or when they last used an old toy. Try to put everything in a positive light. Explain that in order for them to have room for the stuff they really, really want, other items will have to leave or be stored elsewhere. Do not go through your older child’s belongings alone…they will feel as if their opinions do not matter and become reluctant to change. -Encourage generosity. Many people, kids included, can be motivated by helping another. Pick a charity you know will give toys away to less fortunate families, or have your teen pick a charity of their choice to donate old clothes to. Be sure to recognize and praise their act of kindness. -Third, let your child go container shopping with you. Let him or her brainstorm with you about the best place to put the hamper, what shoe rack would really make it easy to store all the sports footwear, or the most convenient location for a desk. Be sure to get their input on any storage containers you want to buy. If someone loves a good solution, they will use it! -Finally, set the expectation that any system put in place must be maintained. No item will put itself away. Create clear guidelines and agree upon how often things will be put away and cleaned up, and then stick to the agreement. You are not only helping your child become more responsible, you are helping them foster good organizing habits!