No one prepared me for the avalanche of items that comes with parenthood. I often find myself perplexed by the sheer volume of toys and gadgets that seem to multiply overnight. From tiny plastic pieces wedged in every corner of our home to books and games consuming all available surfaces, it can feel like our living space is an episode straight out of a reality show about hoarding.
As someone who thrives in a tidy environment, the chaos can trigger significant anxiety. When navigating through a maze of toys becomes a careful dance to avoid injury from a rogue Lego, I know it’s time for a serious decluttering session.
This ritual occurs at least twice a year, sometimes more. I designate a day, ensuring the kids are elsewhere, and dedicate several blissful hours to sorting through their belongings, deciding what to toss, donate, or save. I approach this task with unwavering determination. If a toy hasn’t been touched in the last two or three months, it’s usually on the chopping block. Remarkably, I have never regretted parting with anything—not even for a second. Many toys have only been played with once, if at all.
Of course, cherished toys that hold sentimental value or are frequently used are exceptions. However, the majority of the toys in our home are simply unwarranted plastic clutter. For those that aren’t quite trash but also haven’t seen much action, I arrange to donate them to children in need. As my kids have matured, they have begun to engage in this process, learning a powerful lesson about generosity and the disparity in how others live. Taking toys to donation centers or participating in school drives has opened their eyes to the importance of sharing our abundance.
The aftermath of this decluttering is almost miraculous. After weeks of claiming boredom and lack of play options, my children suddenly rediscover their enthusiasm for play. With fewer distractions, they can actually see the toys they enjoy, leading to more imaginative and fulfilling play. The home feels less chaotic, and our family experiences a collective sense of calm and relief. By removing excess, we find a new sense of abundance—it’s astonishing how less truly translates to more joy.
While I wish I could maintain this decluttered state throughout the year, it’s a challenge to prevent new items from entering our home, especially when it comes to social interactions and gift-giving. However, regular decluttering serves as a reminder of which toys genuinely bring joy. I’ve found that certain categories are invaluable: those linked to specific activities (like science kits) and open-ended toys that spark creativity (like our extensive dress-up collection). Good literature and cooperative games that both my boys can enjoy are also staples.
Over time, I’ve improved my ability to communicate with gift-givers about the types of toys that would be most beneficial. I’ve encouraged my children to value experiences over material possessions, and they have gradually embraced this mindset. I also strive to ensure that any gifts I purchase for them are purposeful and engaging. While it’s not foolproof, it’s a consistent effort.
Ultimately, one of the most valuable lessons we can impart to our children is that less can be more when it comes to possessions. They need to recognize that it’s not about having the latest, trendiest toy, which often comes with a hefty price tag and takes up significant space. What truly matters is the relationships we nurture and the intentions we set, not the items we accumulate.
In terms of toys, what remains should resonate with their interests and passions—what inspires them and brings them joy. Everything else is just excess, and clearing it out allows our family to breathe, relax, and focus on what truly matters. For more information on this topic, visit our other blog post and see how you can further engage with your family’s journey.
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Summary:
Managing toy clutter in a family home can be overwhelming, but with regular decluttering sessions, one can create a more enjoyable space. By teaching children the value of experiences over material possessions and encouraging them to engage in the donation process, families can cultivate a sense of abundance and joy, ultimately leading to a more peaceful living environment.