So, you're listing your home and you have little ones. If you're a parent, you know that kids come with paraphernalia. It may seem impossible to keep your home showing-ready with all the toys and craft projects and found treasures. But, with a few simple tricks, you'll be able to pull your space together in no time... Read on!
EDIT
Everyone has a favorite cluster of possessions. Kids are no different. Look, you have to pack all of this up eventually in order to move, so select about ten toys and a few favorite books for each child to keep and pack or donate the rest - out of sight, out of mind (usually).
You'll need to depersonalize, as well. Gather all the kids' photos, trophies, posters and artwork to move to your new home. Explain to them that their things will be going to an awesome NEW destination - don't keep them in the dark.
CONTAIN
Now that you have the items pared down, invest in some nice-looking bins. Even little kids can help toss toys into a bin for a showing. It's a good way to teach them how to tidy up their space, and will be a life-saver while your home is on the market.
Similarly, go through your bathroom and toss any almost-gone or expired toiletries or prescriptions. Buy everyone matching opaque containers with lids to keep personal items and store them in a drawer or cupboard, if possible. You can label them if it gets confusing.
Have a separate bin for art supplies and games for the entire family. The same goes for pet toys and peripherals. (I'll create a post on staging with pets, soon, as well!)
DAILY OPERATIONS
You'll find you have your place looking perfect, then something happens - like, the mail comes. Or the kids bring home a semester's worth of art and graded homework. Items will continue to enter your home.
Get an accordion folder for the mail and other paperwork and stash it in a drawer, or under the couch - just have a system. The same goes for your kids' stuff - create a large folder out of poster board for each child that can contain all the flat things until you are able to sort it at a time when you're not losing your mind. Keep them in the trunk of your car if you have to.
Be ruthless - recycle, toss, shred wherever possible.
INVOLVE THEM
Yes, it can take a lot longer, but this process is full of valuable lessons. Invite them to choose one toy or the other; take them with you to donate some things to those less fortunate. Take them to see your new home, if that's possible. Get them excited about their new space!
RELAX
Now that you have your house in order, maybe take a moment to feel that excitement, yourself!
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