Decluttering With Kids: 3 Fun Ways to Teach Children To Be Tidy

Rachel Makinson
by Rachel Makinson

Keeping a home organized can be challenging, especially when you have children. However, teaching your kids the importance of decluttering and organizing from a young age is a valuable life skill. The key is to make the process fun and engaging. 


Here are three creative ways to teach your children organization skills, along with some product recommendations that can help turn tidying up into a fun and rewarding activity.

Mom decluttering with her child - image via Canva

Disclaimer: Simplify may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.


1. Turn decluttering into a game

Children love games, so why not turn decluttering into a playful activity? Create a "Treasure Hunt" where kids are tasked with finding and sorting items into categories like toys, books, and clothes. 

Decluttering - image via Canva

You can set a timer to add some excitement and reward them with small prizes for completing tasks within the time limit. This method not only makes organizing fun but also teaches kids to categorize and prioritize.


The Melissa & Doug Wooden Toy Chest is a sturdy and stylish toy chest is perfect for storing all the treasures your kids collect during their decluttering adventures. With its ample space and classic design, it’s an excellent tool to keep toys organized and out of sight.

Melissa & Doug Wooden Toy Chest

2. Use color-coding to simplify sorting

Color-coding is a simple yet effective way to help kids understand the concept of organization. Assign different colored bins, baskets, or drawers for different types of items. 

Box of books - image via Canva

For example, blue for books, red for art supplies, and green for toys. This method makes it easy for children to know where things belong and encourages them to put items back in their designated spots.


The Honey-Can-Do Kids Toy Organizer is a multi-bin storage organizer is perfect for implementing a color-coded system. The bins are easy for little hands to handle and come in bright, attractive colors that make organizing a breeze for kids.

Honey-Can-Do Kids Toy Organizer

3. Create a "donation station"

Teaching kids about giving back is another important life lesson. Set up a "donation station" where children can place items they no longer use or need. Explain to them how these items can help other kids who might not have as much. 

Donations box - image via Canva

Encourage them to regularly review their belongings and decide what they can part with. This practice not only helps keep their spaces clutter-free but also fosters a sense of empathy and generosity.


The SimpleHouseware Foldable Storage Bins are versatile and foldable storage bins are great for creating a dedicated "Donation Station." They’re easy to store when not in use and can be labeled to help kids easily identify where to put their donation items.

SimpleHouseware Foldable Storage Bins

Decluttering hacks for kids 

Decluttering with kids doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By turning organization into a fun and educational experience, you can teach your children valuable skills that will benefit them for a lifetime.


Remember, the goal is to instill good habits early on, so they grow up understanding the importance of a tidy and organized space.


Next, check out these 3 Meal Prep Lunch Ideas for a Delicious and Stress-Free Week.

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