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7 Steps to Organizing Your Child's Toys

1. Separate toys into categories. These might include building blocks, tools, dolls, reading material, action figures, cooking items, musical toys, and art supplies.

2. Make a list of all the categories. Work with your child. If he or she plays with trains and trucks together, store them together. If not, store them separately.

3. Decide how to best contain each category. Your options include drawers, baskets, bins, bookcases and containers. You'll need a bookcase or basket for the books, a plastic storage container for blocks and clear plastic shoe boxes for small parts and accessories.

4. Measure. Stack the building blocks. Take a measuring tape and measure length x width x height. Write it down. Go shopping or look around the house for appropriate containers. Many people buy storage items without knowing exactly how they will use them. Measure first and buy wisely.

5. Make sure every toy has a home. Books and plastic shoe boxes can be placed on a bookcase. Place items low enough for young children to easily reach.

6. Use clear containers or label them with pictures and/or words. Use lids only if necessary. Keep it simple.

7. Teach your children HOW to sort and put away their toys. Schedule a quick clean-up time every day. Make it easy for them to put away their toys and they are more likely to do it.

Copyright © Barbara Myers. Barbara is the author of Your Complete Guide to Organized Parenting. FREE "50 Ways to Manage Your Time" tips booklet at her website. Reprinted with permission.

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