Whether you’re moving or need more space in your home, old toys are one of the things that you should let go of. However, this is not an easy thing to do. Both kids and adults can get sentimental and keep most of their childhood items even if they are not using them. If you’ve been dreading this moment for a long time, this is a guide that will help you in your efforts. Here’s how to part with your kids’ outgrown toys without unnecessary drama and make space for new things and memories.
Don’t underestimate the process
If you’ve been placing old toys in your basement for a long time now, it will take time to sort everything out. Also, if outgrown toys are still in your kids’ rooms, they are probably limiting their focus and creativity and making the space smaller and less comfortable. Take your time with this and be thorough. Also, understand the difference between an outgrown toy and an item with substantial sentimental value. Outgrown toys have served their purpose to the fullest and are no longer used or relevant in your kids’ lives. They deserve to be used by a kid who needs them now, rather than making your home a museum of old and used-up toys.
Show your kids all the benefits
If your kids start a drama about parting with their old toys, try to convince them by telling them all the benefits of this project. By removing pieces they don’t need anymore, they get:
- More space for the new stuff and a clean, tidy room that will help them stay focused and increase creativity;
- Donating old toys will make another child happy, which is undoubtedly a good deed;
Finally, this is a good life lesson that teaches us not to let things own us instead of us owning them. Your kids should learn that things are just things and that what matters the most are the memories, people around you, and health. Also, your kids should know about the importance of an organized and tidy environment. Sometimes, parents have trouble letting go of old toys as well, so this is an excellent practice for them.
Make categories
To ensure you do this efficiently, sort all the items into categories. It would be best to have piles for recycling, donating, or hand-me-downs. Furthermore, you should also have the ‘keep’ pile, as parents shouldn’t throw away everything they find. Keep the items with sentimental value or are connected to a special event or person.
Focus more on bigger, more expensive items
The items you should think about are the ones you paid a lot of money for, collectibles, or things you can’t get that easily. These you can give to friends or family who have kids of the appropriate age. They will undoubtedly appreciate a bike that’s in good condition, a barbie dollhouse, or a similar toy that costs a lot.
Dealing with the books
Even though they are not necessarily toys, children’s books are often a problem for parents to deal with in a decluttering process. You should keep books that are classics or the ones that are a present from a particular person. Also, keep books or workbooks that show the kids’ progress – ones they will appreciate seeing in the future. Donate the books you don’t need to a local library or a charity – but only do this if they are in good condition. Otherwise, recycle and save our environment!
Include your kids in the process
As you’re dealing with their items, your kids should be present and help you decide what things you should keep or not. Being involved will ensure they feel valued, important, and ready to make decisions. It’s also a way to spend quality time with your loved ones and even have some fun down memory lane.
Remember: it’s a good idea for your kids to participate in the donation process. This is a valuable lesson of being generous and thankful for everything good in our lives. Take the toys to the charity together, so your kids can truly see that these items have a purpose. This way, you’ll be getting rid of unnecessary toys and teaching your child how good it feels to help those with less fortune.
Be patient
Don’t expect your kids will find it easy to say goodbye to their old toys. There could be some emotional reactions, so try to be as patient as possible. Parents are here to be supportive and understanding, yet practical and able to explain why they should part ways with an item.
Have some toys left?
After you try to part with your kids’ outgrown toys, there will probably be some items left you want to keep. However, if making more space in your home is the priority, renting a storage unit can be a great option. A secure and affordable unit will help you store your kids’ toys safely, so it’s the best option if you want to save them from damage, dust, etc. Just be sure to pack the toys well and label the boxes so you can easily find them even after a long time.
Storage units are a great way to make more space in your home, so people use them for keeping seasonal clothes, skiing equipment, etc. They are also beneficial when moving, so keep that in mind when planning your next move.
Conclusion
Both kids and adults can have trouble leaving behind things they once loved or used a lot. However, it is necessary to part with your kids’ outgrown toys to make room for some new toys, experiences, and memories. It’s a normal step in the cycle of life, and we should embrace the new chapter that is coming. Hopefully, these tips will help you be more efficient and maximize the space in your home. Likewise, they should teach your kid a thing or two about life, which is a win in our book.
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