If you’re feeling a little swamped by the idea of sorting your child’s stuff, or your child is suffering mental burnout looking at all of those toys, it’s time to get rid of things! Of course, the best way to get rid of items is to avoid getting them in the first place. But if you’re swamped with stuff, follow these suggestions to help it find a new home where it will be valued.
Give things to a friend. The other day, a friend came over to visit and left with a bag of clothes. Only do this after you ask the friend’s parents, or you may find that they avoid your house (just kidding!).
Give it to Freecycle or Craigslist. Yesterday morning, I gave away two items before 9 am: a record for me! There are plenty of people out there who want to take your old items for free or for a small price.
Hold a garage sale. If you have enough items to get rid of or you want to join up with neighbors, this will help you get rid of a lot of items in a hurry. It can also help children make and save money.
Give it to a group of young parents who need it. There are plenty of people in the world who don’t have enough. Look for single parents’ groups, group homes, and other centers that give out much-needed items like baby clothes.
Give it to an organization. We’ve given quality items to our preschool, for example. Doctors’ offices might need books for children. Community centers might need toys. Ask first!
Save it for Christmas or a birthday. If your items are in good condition, regift them to someone for Christmas or a birthday! Some of our birthday kids now request secondhand toys.
Turn it into something else. I’m saving a few of my daughter’s old clothes for a future memory quilt. What items could you repurpose?
Save it for other members of the family. While I’m not big on saving items for decades, I have saved a few things for my daughter’s future children, if she has any. We’ve also given many items to my niece.
How do you reuse old children’s items?
Image Credit: JM Griffin