Every once in a while, I run into some really cute, practical and fun ideas for getting kids organized. Often I forget about them, or bookmark them in hopes that I will someday take the time to incorporate them into my kids’ routines. FamilyFun Magazine had some keepers, so before they make their way to the file (clearly labeled and color-coded, of course), I thought I would pass them on.
Shoe Gnomes
These are so adorable. You can’t not make at least one. You’ll need a few basic supplies:
- felt
- a large-eye needle
- embroidery floss
- a peg-style clothespin
- markers
So cute. Click here for full instructions, a printable template and a picture of these little guys. Your kids will never lose a shoe again.
No-Nag Checklist
This is great for the kid who has trouble keeping track of chores (so, every kid), or for younger children who can’t read yet. Again, just some simple supplies are required:
- a letter-size file folder
- adhesive magnet strips
- glue
- chore icons (made from clip art, drawings or magazine clippings)
- labels reading “done”
The image of the chore to be completed is shown inside the flap of the folder. Once completed, the child closes the flap with the magnetic strips, and the word “done” appears. Genius. Here is the link for this great project to help your kids be in charge of their own chores.
On-The-Go Coloring Book
This is probably one of the most amazing creations that someone could come up with for organizing kids coloring supplies. It’s so easy to put together, and very practical. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pack adhesive backed Velcro strips
- 3-ring binder
- large crayons
- paper
To make this, follow these simple steps:
- Cut a small strip of Velcro for each crayon you would like to attach. Attach the rough side of each strip to the inside cover of the binder.
- Attach the other side of the Velcro the the crayon by rolling it around the center. You can go all the way around or just half way.
- Attach each crayon to a Velcro strip, and add paper to the binder.
The paper is held in place on one side of the binder, while the Velcro holds the crayons on the opposite side. You could even punch holes in printable coloring pages and add them to the binder. Kids of all ages will love this, and you’ll love not scraping melted crayons off of your car seats!
It’s never to early to teach your kids the value of organization!
–Can the Clutter/ CTC Productivity: Home and office organizing in Eugene/Springfield, OR and Minneapolis/St Paul MN
