A well-organized home is a gift that benefits the entire family—the smallest members included. Studies have found that kids with fewer toys are better able to focus and use their imaginations for longer periods of time than those who are overwhelmed by their options. The goal is for your kids to start learning a life skill and be able to participate in owning responsibility for their things and their space.

Editing and donating is a daunting, often emotional, process for adults—so it’s no surprise that kids struggle with it, too. If you’ve found yourself loading up donations under the cover of darkness, hiding the “donate” bin or fabricating elaborate stories when an item that’s left your home is suddenly missed (“visiting family, I think!”), we hear you! And we’re here to help. These strategies have served our clients—and our own kids—well in the past and we hope they’ll ease the process for your family, too.