material possessions have greater risk of unhappiness, anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. So, clutter doesn’t just take up physical space. It takes mental and emotional space. Letting go of excess stuff often helps kids feel safer, more focused and less anxious. Here are ways to make decluttering with kids manageable and meaningful.
Start with Gratitude Some kids might feel bad about letting go of things, especially gifts or items with sentimental value. Begin by focusing on gratitude. Ask your child to pick one item, think about a fun memory with it, thank it and decide if it still belongs in their space. If not, donate it. This process helps to shift from loss or guilt to appreciation.
workspace, kids see those behaviors as normal. Sharing your own internal conversation helps, too, such as, “This shirt fits me well, but I haven’t worn it in two years. I’m going to let it go.”
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Do quick weekly tidy-ups, rather than waiting for a mess to get out of control.
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Every toy donated, every drawer cleared and every decision to let go sends an important message to kids: Our worth isn’t found in things, but in the space we make for joy, focus and connection.
Regularly revisit clothes and toys (at birthdays or holiday gift times) to see what’s still used.
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Integrate giving into your calendar. Donate old items at least a few times a year.
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Teach kids the “one in, one out” rule: When a new item comes in, consider removing something to “make space” for it.
Practical Steps & Tools Here are tools that make decluttering with kids feel like teamwork: •
Use the “three-box method”: One box for things to keep, one for donations, and one for things to toss. It helps to make decisions quickly.
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Set a timer: 15 minutes of focused decluttering. Stop when the timer ends.
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Rotate toys: Put some away in storage and rotate regularly. It reduces overwhelm and makes toys feel fresh again.
Make it About Giving One of the most powerful reframes in decluttering is the concept of generosity. When kids give toys or clothes to others, they experience the meaningful process of sharing. You might say, “This toy has been so much fun. Maybe a child who doesn’t have many toys would really enjoy it.”
Celebrate Small Wins A whole-house declutter feels overwhelming. Choose a small space to start with, such as a bookshelf, toy bin or one drawer. Know that each small win creates momentum. Celebrate that boost and keep it going. When the playroom is sorted, let the kids choose the first game to play there. When a drawer is decluttered, have them rearrange the loved items that remain.
Give Kids Choices Children respond more positively when they feel heard. Let them decide what stays and what goes when possible. Ask questions like, “Do you ever play with this?” and “Would another child enjoy this more than you?” When kids know their opinions matter, decluttering feels like they’re helping to shape their space.
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Make labels for containers: Use pictures for younger children.
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Play music or set a vibe: Decluttering is fun if it’s not seen as a chore. Treat it like a quick, mini-mission.
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Use an app: Neat Kid is a family chores app that helps kids earn rewards or points for completed tasks.
Dealing with Resistance Decluttering with kids doesn’t always go smoothly. When you face resistance or emotional pushback, consider delaying the decision by boxing the item up and revisiting it a few months later.
Be a Role Model
Long-Term Maintenance
When you clear out your closet, donate items or reorganize your
To maintain a clutter-free home, focus on building long-term habits:
According to Paula Ripple, professional organizer and owner of OrganizeWell, teaching children to declutter is time well spent. “Little ones will soon be in dorm rooms and homes of their own, and the skills of organizing will serve them well,” she says. Decluttering after the holidays isn’t just about creating a neater home; it’s about creating breathing room for your family. The process may be messy at times, but it plants seeds of gratitude, generosity and confidence that will serve children and families long after the piles are gone. v Shannon Dean is a freelance writer.
Books to Share with Kids Too Many Toys by David Shannon: A playful, laugh-out-loud story that shows what happens when the pile of toys gets out of control. The Berenstain Bears Think of Those in Need by Stan & Jan Berenstain: A classic tale about sharing and giving to others. Something from Nothing by Phoebe Gilman: A heartwarming reminder that passing things on creates new joy and meaning.
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