You know it’s coming….especially if you have kids. The onslaught of stuff, even as you try to keep it simple.

Spending time now to minimize and make room will allow you and your kids to enjoy whatever new items do come through the door during the holiday season.

EDIT

Do a first pass without the kids to eliminate broken items or toys you know they always look over. You know them best.

GIVE

Talk to your kids about giving to others and include them in efforts to provide for those in need. You can also remind them that the less tangible “stuff” that we have to take care of and clean up at the end of the day, the more time we have for family adventures and simple play time.

MINIMIZE

Include them in minimizing to select a few toys, books, and stuffed animals each to donate to those in need, reminding them of the need to make room in order to have new come in. Once you have done this for several years, they will expect it. Areas to tackle include:

Make Believe/Pretend Play/Dress-Up
Puzzles + Games
Building Toys
Art Supplies
Books

COMMUNICATE

Help your kids to make a “wish” list, on paper, a Pinterest “Gift” list, or we love Amazon Wish Lists that we can add to throughout the year. Articulate to family + friends who ask for ideas your desire for more experiences like movie tickets, and encourage consumables like art supplies, or games that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Over time, they will notice your desire for simplified living.