Organizing with Children: Practical Tips and Loving Guidance
I’ve been getting a lot of questions about organizing with children, so I wanted to share some tips and insights that might help you navigate this often challenging task. Here are some basic nuggets to help you out.
Navigating Childcare and Organizing
First, I want to acknowledge that juggling childcare and organizing, especially when school is out of unexpectedly closed, can be really stressful. Whether your parenting has been fun and lovely or exhausting and overwhelming, you’re doing an amazing job.
Teaching Kids to Organize: When and How
The main questions I get are: “How do you teach your children to organize?” and “How do you organize your children's rooms for them?” Sometimes you should organize for them, and sometimes you should involve them in the process. It all depends on their developmental stage.
Organizing by Developmental Stages
I like to simplify organizing with children into three categories: Finds, Friends, and Future.
Finds (Birth to Age 6)
For the littlest ones, it’s all about what they find and touch. At this stage, kids learn by imitation. They observe how you treat objects and learn from you. Keep their space organized and show them respect and care for their belongings. This age is crucial for setting an example.
Friends (Ages 7 to 11)
As children grow, their focus shifts to friends and feelings. They start understanding that others have different feelings and preferences. At this stage, having an organized space means they can enjoy having friends over and participating in activities without the stress of clutter. Encourage them to take responsibility for their belongings by setting up systems they can easily follow.
Future (Ages 12 and Up)
As kids enter their preteen and teenage years, they start thinking about their future. This can be a stressful time with schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and personal responsibilities. An organized space becomes even more important to help them manage their stress and responsibilities. Teach them the benefits of organization and help them create a space that supports their goals.
Practical Tips for Organizing with Kids
Gather, Treasure, Share: Teach your kids to gather all their items, decide what they treasure, and share or donate the rest. This helps them understand the value of their belongings and the joy of giving.
Involve Them: Depending upon on their age, involve your kids in the organizing process. For younger kids, make it fun by letting them help with simple tasks. Older kids can take on more responsibility and have a say in how their space is organized.
Create a System: Set up organizing systems that are easy for your kids to follow. Use labeled bins, low shelves, and clear containers so they can see where everything goes.
Set Boundaries and Expectations: Establish clear rules for your home, such as no dirty dishes in bedrooms or keeping common areas tidy. This teaches kids respect for shared spaces.
Model Positive Behavior: Show your kids that organizing and caring for your personal belongings and your home can be a joyful experience. Your attitude towards organizing will influence theirs.
Asking for Help
Remember, it’s okay to ask for help. Whether it’s hiring a professional organizer, enlisting family members, or trading tasks with friends, getting help can make a huge difference. Delegating tasks allows you to focus on what you enjoy and do best.
Taking Breaks
Breaks are essential. Organizing can be physically and emotionally tiring, so give yourself permission to take breaks. Work in small chunks of time and take regular water breaks to stay hydrated and refreshed.
Embrace Your Worth
You deserve to live in a beautiful, organized home without feeling overwhelmed. You are enough, and taking breaks is smart because it helps you think clearly and creatively.
If you need assistance, don't hesitate to reach out for help. Visit pinkyjackson.com to schedule a free assessment. We would love to help you with our Onsite Organizing services if you are in the Louisville, KY area or our Virtual Organizing services if you are more remote or prefer to work online.
Pinky Jackson is an Organizing Expert and Decluttering Specialist. She and her team organize homes & offices in Louisville, KY. For more information about Pinky’s pricing & services or to schedule your free assessment, go to pinkyjackson.com
Photo: Jason Sung @jasonsung
