Problem: The room is finally organized . . . for now. But kids grow, change interests, and keep getting gifts. Ugh, there's just no way to stay on top of it.
Solution: Yes, there is! "Use large baskets to accommodate bulky categories like stuffed animals, blocks, and train sets," they said. "For the smaller and more specific categories, use stackable shoe boxes and a paint pen to identify each item. The paint pen easily wipes clean with rubbing alcohol for future updating!" The experts also use dry erase tape for less-permanent labeling. Another tip is to make it a house rule that the toy can only stay if it's been played with that past year. "According to our kids, they've played with all of their toys . . . which we know isn't true."
Problem: Real talk: not everything fits in a bin!
Solution: As much as Clea and Joanna love themselves a good bin or basket, even they acknowledge it's not the answer to everything. For things that don't fit on a shelf — like play tables, ride-along toys, or dollhouses — there's hope. They swear by the "one in and one out" philosophy, which means you donate one large, bulky toy for every large, bulky purchase. When that still doesn't help, "Try creating zones so every space has a purpose and every item has a home," they said. "If you have a lot of trucks, for instance, create a 'parking lot' so that there's a designated spot for them. The zone will hold you accountable and keep the room from descending into toy chaos."
