Teaching Kids to Let Go of Clutter

As parents, we face the challenge of helping our children declutter and let go of everything from toys and clothes to art and old school projects. While we might see removing these items as a necessary step to creating peaceful homes, it can be really hard for our children to detach from their items. There are, however, thoughtful approaches and strategies that will guide your children into building healthy decluttering habits. 

Kids Follow by Example 

Many parents realize the power of example when our little ones repeat a swear word they catch us saying (oops!). The same goes for letting go of belongings. When our children see us parting with our own items, and when we explain to them why we are doing so, it sets an extremely powerful example - this is a great step to help children start letting go of their own items. On the contrary, if we expect our kids to let go of their items, but they don't see us parting with any items of our own, it might make letting go a more difficult emotional journey for them. 

Involve Them in Every Step 

Give your kids a sense of control by letting them make decisions about what to part with. Some guiding questions you could ask are:

When is the last time you used/played with this? Is there another toy that you like better? Can you pick out five toys (or pieces of artwork, clothing, etc.) that are the most special to you? 

Describing to your kids where their donated items are going (or letting them choose!) is also key. Make sure that they understand that their books and toys will be going to other children, and that their gently used items will bring other children great joy! Some kids shows, like Bluey (Season 2 Episode 38), have great episodes on the importance of donation to help children get excited about donating. 

Set Boundaries 

When decluttering and donating systems are created in your home, these practices don't involve much thought; you and your kids both know that this is simply a routine that they follow, and this makes it much easier for kids. Physical boundaries are a game-changer for creating these systems and building habits. For example, if there is only one box in their room for books, any book that does not fit in the box has to go, and they have the choice of which books to donate so all of the books fit in the box (link). If their stuffed animals are stored in a stuffie hammock (link), that is the space that they have for stuffed animals - no more, no less... if one doesn't fit, one has to go. Creating physical boundaries makes it easier for everyone to stay organized and prevents your kids from being shocked when it's time for them to part with some of their toys. It's a system that your kids will expect and hopefully carry with them throughout their lives. 

Final Thoughts 

Letting go is an emotional process for everyone, and for kids, even more so, since they don't yet have the critical thinking skills to fully understand the benefits and why it might be necessary. When encouraging your kids to part with some of their toys, old clothing, etc., remember to be patient, acknowledge their emotions, and celebrate them when they do make the choice to let go of their belongings.