I get asked a lot of the same questions when people find out I’m a professional home organizer.

Some of the more common questions I get are:

“How do I teach my kids to tidy up?”

“How do I manage toy clutter?”

While I could go on and on about ways to declutter toys, I’ll instead focus this post on ways to teach your kids to organize and tidy up around the house. These are things I do with my own kids and what I share with clients.

First - show them.

You can’t expect your little ones to instinctively know how or when to organize their toys. Be sure to show them by doing and be consistent. Consistency helps create lifelong healthy habits.

Remember that by showing your child where their items go - you are literally teaching them. Designate certain containers for their personal items. Show them where their clothing should live. Show them where the cars and the blocks and the bikes go when they’re done with playtime.

Second - patiently remind them.

Just because you told them and showed them where their things go, doesn’t mean your child will magically be amazing at tidying up. Kids have distractions and their own agendas and their own free will! It takes constant, patient reminders and for many parents this can mean reward systems or other systems to help kids make and keep good habits. Organization and tidying up are no different. Be patient and you’ll be amazed at the results over time.

Third - be clear.

Be sure you have designated zones for your child’s items. If you say, put your clothes over there - what does “over there” actually mean? Instead, put your dirty clothes in the hamper in the corner. Or please put your cars in the car bin in the closet. I don’t know about you but I appreciate when adults give me clear direction - same is helpful for little ones when it comes to home organization and tidying up.

What tips or suggestions have you used with your own kids? Do you use any of these tips already? Let me know in the comments!