The skill of organizing can be learned by anyone, even kids. A good way to ease them into it is to have them contribute in small ways. Start by giving them organizing projects that match their skill level, so they don’t get discouraged or frustrated. Beginners can sort, categorize, and dispose, as well as assist with specific tasks. Once those skills are mastered they can advance to decision making and item placement. Ongoing practice and participation will improve their skills. Offering rewards and showing appreciation will help facilitate positive reinforcement and encourage future participation. By helping kids learn the skill of organizing at an early age, not only are they contributing to organizing the household, they’re acquiring skills that will help them in every aspect of their lives now and in the future. Here is a list of 20 organizing projects kids can do.
- While organizing kitchen cupboards have kids match food storage containers with their lids and recycle all the unmatched ones.
- Test pens and markers and discard the dried up ones.
- Check games for missing pieces. Make new pieces if possible.
- Disinfect door knobs and light switches. (Cleaning is part of organizing.)
- Sort craft supplies into categories and put away.
- Help clean out the car by tossing trash, wiping down doors, and washing mirrors.
- Shred papers that are deemed shreddable. Have them work from one box or bag of shreddable papers at a time.
- Collect mail and put into one designated mail in-box.
- Check dates on magazines and catalogues and recycle anything over 3 months old.
- While cleaning out the pantry have kids check expiration dates on canned goods, boxed food, and condiments. Toss what’s expired and donate to a food bank what won’t get eaten.
- Include them in the kitchen clean up by having them empty the dish washer.
- Create a donate box with images of what can go in it. Put 3 things in it from their room that they’re ready to get rid of.
- Label their devices, adapters, cords and headphones.
- Try on clothes for the next season to see what fits. Put what doesn’t fit into the donation box.
- Put all dirty clothes in hamper. Wash their own clothes if they are capable.
- Include them in the laundry process by having them put away their clean laundry.
- Pick 10 school and art projects to save for the year. Store in one bin with label that they create.
- Make a spare parts bin to collect all the wandering game pieces, puzzle pieces, and legos. Collect them daily and empty the bin weekly.
- Clean out school bag/backpack and get rid of what’s not needed.
- Mark important dates (birthdays, school events, sport events, parties) on the calendar for the next 3 months.
©May 2020 Janine Cavanaugh, Certified Professional Organizer® All Rights Reserved
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