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View submission: Minimalizing with kids?
First start by limiting what is coming in to your house. If your kids want to bring something in, they have to pick something to go out (in a similar category). Next, set physical boundaries - we can keep as many clothes as can fit in the dresser with all drawers closed correctly. We can fit as many items in the closet that hang with 1/2 inch of space between them, etc. We can keep as many puzzles, cars, dolls, as can fit in this bin.
Or, you could have your kids put everything they use in X time frame in a certain box/area. Anything not used during that time get a serious evaluation. The more frequently you do this the more it will become normal to them. It’s a constant exercise, it won’t be done all at once.
I tend to limit my kids to a “junk drawer” or under bed storage container for all of those miscellaneous items they like to keep (that is really just garbage like valentines, birthday party goodies, those types of things)
My 12 and 10 year old are pretty good now about managing their belongings but my 7 year old is still a toy hoarder. I let him have a laundry hamper of stuffed animals. They all have to fit inside. One drawer of his dresser is for random toys and papers - they don’t belong on his floor, they belong in the drawer. He has a bins under his bed for puzzles, figurines, cars. Lego sets get stored in containers in his closet.
Edit: also agree make sure your personal belongings are taken care of first. As a mom and wife, I found this to mean anything I personally brought into the house, even things that serve the family and not just myself. My husband has no idea what my intentions were for random things I brought into the house and I realized things I thought were “for the family” were really just for me. This includes house decor, holiday items, craft items, excess cleaning supplies, etc etc etc.
There's nothing here!