KATHY'S HOME & GARDEN TIPS - LET’S START GETTING ORGANIZED NOW! Part 2
NO TIME LIKE THE PRESENT TO TEACH THE KIDS!
Very young children can learn to keep their room tidy. Of course, we need to make it a little easier for the small ones. My grandchildren are two and three years old, yet they pick up their toys and clothes.
First, keep a clothes hamper in the room near the closet. It is easier for children to take off their clothes and put them in the hamper if it's easily accessible. It's also good to keep many of their clothes within their reach by putting a lower rod in their closet. Keep their socks, underwear, shirts and pants in shallow accessible drawers. This will give them independence, but be prepared for some strange combinations. Kids have their own ideas about what looks good.
Plastic storage bins are great for toy storage. They come in all sizes and colors, are very sturdy and will endure a lot of punishment. Use different sizes to hold different types of toys - keep blocks in one bin, trucks in another. Again, make sure the bins are not too high for the children to reach. A good rule of thumb is to always keep storage for your children at their level.
Three shelf bookcases are low enough for them to store their books and odds and ends. A good time for toy pick-up is before bath and bed. Make this a routine every night. In no time, the kids will be cleaning more than just their room.
DO YOU HAVE AN ORGANIZING TIP TO SHARE? Let me know.
KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO
