Toy Rotation: Why and How to do It

Toddlers and Preschoolers come with an abundance of toys especially after Christmas and Birthdays.  I want to discuss with you what I have found the answer to this to be. 

Edit Toys

First thing is to get rid of anything that your children do not like or use, is broken, or you find totally annoying.  Next is to get ready to start rotating your toys. So only ¼ to 1/5 of your toys are out at a given time.  I have found that kids play with the toys more if there isn’t so many, it’s easier to keep tidy, and they play with them differently each time they are taken out due to new developmental stages.  Kids act like Christmas on toy exchange day.  I’ll walk you through the steps to rotating them. 

Categorize

First bring all the toys into one room and organize them by category: stuffed animals, balls, trucks/cars, books, play food, instruments, bags/purses, small toys, jewelry, electronic, blocks/construction, role play toys, and “ask for toys.”

“Ask For” Toys

Ask for toys are toys that have many pieces like puzzles, are messy (playdoh, paint, stamps etc), or just need supervision like small magnets or beads.  Put “Ask for Toys” in a locked or high cabinet so they are out of rotation. 

Favorite Toys

Also take out any toys that are special to your child such as a favorite doll, bear, or truck or anything used daily for play like a shopping cart, basket, or kitchen.  The rest can be rotated.

Label Bins and Schedule Rotation

Once you have it all separated by category divide each category by the number of bins you have placing items into the bins as you go.  I try to make mine all fit into 5 bins labeled A-E and I rotate about every 2 weeks or when they seem bored with their toys.  It’s also a great day to rotate when a babysitter is coming or you really need to get something done since they will be entertained well that day. 

Less is really more!

Are you ready to get your space or schedule organized? Let me know how I can help you get to a more Peaceful Place.