Organizing skills can be learned, so it is especially important to teach them to children while they are young. It is one of the best gifts you can give them. Use the following ideas to learn how to be organized together, as a family.

Have the kids be an active part in the decision making process of how to organize their room.

Create fun and easy storage. Create scavenger hunts to find things out of place or use a timer to put all the toys in their home.

Shelving and bars to hang clothing should be at the kid's level. Keep toys easily accessible so that it's easy to put things back where they belong.

Practice the "One in, Two Out" rule. For every new toy the child receives, they need to pick two they no longer play with and give to another friend or donate to an organization.
Use clear containers to store toys and clothing. To identify the boxes use labels with large print or Polaroid pictures on the outside.

Remove puzzles from their original box and place them inside individual Ziploc bags. Color the back of each puzzle piece the same color or with a symbol such as a triangle or smiley face. This will help identify which piece goes to what puzzle. Cut the picture off the original box and place in the bag. Store all ziplock bags with puzzles in a bin for easy access.

Realize each child has a different organizing personality and may need to do things differently. Encourage their creativity for systems that work for them.

As tempting as it can, and will be, don't do it for them. They will never be motivated to do it themselves if they know it will be done for them. Instead, do it with them and be a great role model with your own space.

Marlo is Professional Organizing Coach who teaches people to become more organized. You are invited to check out www.organizetogether.com for more tips, articles, resources, and motivation. We think she is a fabulous resource for the busy parent.