Playroom Purge: Encouraging Kids to Declutter

Playroom Purge

If the thought of tackling your kids’ overflowing playroom makes you want to hide under a pile of stuffed animals, you’re not alone.

Encouraging kids to declutter their own stuff can feel like a monumental task. But what if I told you it doesn’t have to be a battle? It can even be…fun. Yes, fun!

In our home, we’ve turned decluttering into a family activity that’s more about connection and creativity than nagging. And because I know this process can feel overwhelming, I’ve created an eBook called “Playroom Purge” to help guide your family through six creative ideas for purging kids’ stuff together.

Spoiler alert: These ideas actually work—and your kids might even thank you for them. (Okay, maybe not right away, but eventually.)

Why Involve Kids in Decluttering?

Just as it is beneficial to give your kids chores or “roles”, it’s so important to involve your kids in the decluttering process.

Yes, it would be faster to grab a trash bag and do it yourself while they’re at school, but here’s the thing: decluttering teaches kids valuable lessons about responsibility, gratitude, and decision-making.

Plus, when they have a say in what stays and what goes, they’re far less likely to notice that their half-broken toy car is suddenly “missing.”

Make Decluttering a Positive Experience

Kids are more likely to get on board with decluttering if it feels less like a chore and more like an adventure. Here are three tips to make the process positive:

1. Frame it as an opportunity. Instead of focusing on what they’re losing, emphasize the benefits: more space to play, easier cleanup, and room for new treasures (if needed).
2. Set a timer. Decluttering doesn’t have to last all day. Start with 15-30 minutes and see how much progress you can make in a short burst.
3. Celebrate progress. Even small victories deserve a high-five or a dance party. Make the process rewarding!

6 Creative Ideas for Decluttering as a Family

This is where my eBook, “Playroom Purge,” comes in handy. Inside, you’ll find six creative and engaging ways to declutter as a family, plus darling printables that’ll make the process easier and more FUN. Here’s a sneak peek at a few ideas:

• The Toy Shop: Set up a mini Toy Shop where kids can “sell” you their unwanted toys for pretend money. Allow them to purchase experiences from you with the ”money” they earn.
• Donate for Donuts: Make decluttering a fun and rewarding experience by motivating your kids to part with toys they no longer use or need in exchange for a delicious treat.
• The “Give Back Sack”: Make toy purging magical with Santa’s elves! This holiday idea teaches kids the joy of giving while clearing space for holiday treasures.

Each idea in the eBook includes step-by-step instructions to make the activity simple and stress-free.

A Decluttered Playroom = A Happier Family

The best part? Once the playroom is decluttered, everyone benefits. Cleanup time becomes easier, there’s more room for creativity, and you might just rediscover the joy of spending time together without tripping over a sea of action figures and puzzle pieces.

So, are you ready to tackle the clutter together? Grab your copy of “Playroom Purge” today and let’s turn this overwhelming task into an opportunity for family fun, connection, and a fresh start.