Organizing Kids' Spaces: Simple Tips for Independence and Clutter-Free Living

When it comes to organizing and decluttering kids’ spaces, the goal is to set them up for success and foster independence. These two key strategies can make a world of difference in reducing stress for both parents and kids while creating systems that truly work. 

1. Design Storage at Their Level 

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to empower kids is to make their belongings easily accessible. Move closet rods down to their height and invest in low, kid-friendly storage solutions. This enables them to pick out their clothes and get dressed independently. 

The same principle applies to the kitchen. Create accessible zones for plates, bowls, and snacks so your little ones can grab what they need without constantly asking for help. It’s a win-win for everyone—less disruption for parents and more confidence for kids. 

2. Adopt Macro Storage for Simplicity 

Kids naturally have shorter attention spans, which makes detailed organization impractical. Instead of striving for perfection, embrace macro storage solutions. Think big bins, broad categories, and simple rules. For example: 

• Skip folding clothes and instead group items by type. 

• Use clear labeled baskets for toys, categorizing them by function or theme. 

• Designate storage spots where items are naturally left to encourage tidier habits. 

I recently had a parent ask me how to get her daughter to keep her clothes in her closet.  Her daughter every morning would pull out every item so she could try things on and decide what to wear.  This resulted in clothes being left all over the floor every day.   Like most 8-year-olds, she a visual person and wanted to SEE the clothes but putting them back seemed like too much effort. My advice to her was to let go of keeping the closet perfectly organized and create bins by category that her daughter could just throw the items in after she was done.  This way the floor would stay clean, and the parents are not repeating tasks that would be undone hours later.   

These easy-to-follow systems allow kids to put things away on their own, even if it’s not your version of perfection. The key is to let go of rigid organizational styles and focus on what works for them—and saves you time. 

Take the Stress Out of Organizing! 

Transforming your child’s space into an organized, functional haven doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Sustainable Simplicity Organizing in Portland, OR, we specialize in creating kid-friendly systems that reduce clutter and encourage independence. Ready to tackle the chaos? Contact us today for a complimentary consultation and start your journey toward stress-free spaces!