5 Practical Ways to Help Kids Pick Up After Themselves (Without the Power Struggles)
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If you’ve ever stepped on a Lego barefoot, you know the pain of a messy house all too well. Teaching kids to clean up after themselves can feel like a constant battle—but it doesn’t have to be. With the right strategies and the right tools, you can turn cleanup time into a habit instead of a hassle.
At Simply Sorted, we believe organizing should feel natural, even for little hands. Here are 5 real-world tips to help your kids take ownership of their space—and a few of our favorite products to make it easier.
1. Make It Easy to Succeed
The easier it is for kids to clean up, the more likely they’ll do it. Skip the complicated systems and give them clear homes for their stuff.
Try This: Use labeled bins, baskets, or clear drawers for toys, crafts, and books. Keep them low and accessible.
Simply Sorted Pick:
🧺 Sliding Glass Door Sideboard Cabinet
Perfect for shared spaces, this cabinet has adjustable shelves and a clean design. It hides clutter while keeping things easy to reach.
2. Clean Up With Them—At First
You wouldn’t expect a child to ride a bike without training wheels. Same goes for tidying up. Help them build the habit by doing it together at first.
Tip: Narrate the process. “Blocks go here, books go there.” Eventually, they’ll start repeating your cues.
Simply Sorted Pick:
🧸 Wall-Mounted Toy Baskets
These space-saving organizers are fun, functional, and easy for little ones to use.
3. Use the Power of Routines
Cleaning doesn’t have to be a fight when it’s part of the rhythm of the day. Add pickup times before screen time, dinner, or bedtime.
Tip: Set a 5-minute timer and make it a race or play a favorite song. Consistency + fun = success.
4. Give Them Ownership of Their Space
Kids take pride in things that feel like theirs. Give them a say in how things are organized. Let them decorate labels or choose bin colors.
Simply Sorted Pick:
📦 Under-Bed Storage Bags
These breathable, space-saving bags are great for seasonal toys, stuffed animals, or out-of-rotation items—and kids love sliding them in and out.
5. Celebrate Small Wins
Praise matters more than perfection. Don’t wait for a Pinterest-worthy room—celebrate every step in the right direction.
Try This: A sticker chart or “Clean-Up Champ” award can go a long way (especially with younger kids).
Final Thought: Progress, Not Perfection
Your home doesn’t have to be spotless—it just needs to work for your family. The goal isn’t just a clean room; it’s raising capable, confident kids who respect their space.
And with smart tools like the ones in our Simply Sorted shop, creating that kind of home feels a whole lot easier.