It’s a useful habit to declutter your home every year, getting rid of anything you no longer need and making room for new things that improve your life. It’s also an activity you can share with your children, teaching them some valuable lessons in the process. Financial education and discipline are crucial from a young age, laying the foundation for them to grow into money-savvy adults. 

Involving your kids in the decluttering process instils a sense of responsibility. Encouraging them to sell or donate their preloved belongings teaches empathy and helps them understand the true value of money. Who knows? You might even ignite their interest in philanthropy or entrepreneurship. 

As they grow up, they’ll naturally outgrow certain possessions, which can accumulate as clutter. Getting kids involved in the decluttering process not only results in cleaner living spaces, but also builds their sense of maturity as they progress through different stages of childhood.

Benefits of helping your kids to declutter

• Tidy rooms
  When there’s too much stuff scattered around, it’s easier for kids to become disorganised. Keeping things neat and organised not only creates a more pleasant living environment, but also helps them find what they need quickly.
  
  
• Caring for others
  Donating their old toys to needy children will teach your kids empathy. It’s not just about letting go of things they no longer need – it’s a way of showing kindness to others and appreciating their own good fortune.
  
  
• Creating space to learn
  Letting go of old toys or clothes clears the way for exciting new things to happen and allows your kids to embrace opportunities for growth.
  
  
  

Make this process easier for your child

• Lead by example
  When your kids see you letting go of things you no longer need, it shows them that it’s a normal thing to do. Leading by example can make them feel more comfortable about decluttering their own spaces.
  
    

• Make it fun
  Turning the decluttering process into a game or a fun activity can make it more engaging for your child. It adds an element of enjoyment to what might otherwise feel like a chore.
  
  
• Earn and learn
  If your child sells their old toys, not only do they let go of things, but they also get the chance to earn some money. This introduces them to the idea that parting with possessions can come with rewards, making it more appealing for them to declutter.
   

How to get kids to declutter

Decluttering with kids can be tricky, especially when they’re very young and might not grasp the reasons behind it. Here’s a simple approach to make the process engaging:
 

• Create 5 categories
  Set up 5 designated areas for sorting: ‘keep’, ‘sell’, ‘donate’, ‘discard’, and a compromise ‘maybe’ space. This visual method helps kids categorise their belongings, making the process more manageable.
  
  
• Sort toys, books, and clothes
  Get your child to separate their items into the respective categories. This gives them a hands-on role in decision-making and keeps the task organised.
  
  
• Use the 6-month rule
  Establish a rule that if an item has not been used in the past 6 months, it should go into the ‘donate’ or ‘sell’ space if it’s in good condition, or the ‘discard’ pile if it’s beyond repair. This adds a bit of structure to the decision-making process and fosters more intentional selection.
  
  
• Handle the ‘maybe’ list last
  While sorting, let your child put anything that they’re hesitant to part with, even if they haven’t used it recently, in the ‘maybe’ space. Review this box together at the end of the decluttering session, seeking compromises on what to keep and what to let go. Keep an open mind, as your child may attach sentimental value or comfort to certain items.
  
  
  

Teaching kids financial literacy

At the end of a declutter session, you can sell everything in the ‘sell’ space to make some extra cash. You can do this through social media selling groups, flea markets or a family yard sale. Let your kids earn money by selling their preloved items too, and use the experience to improve their financial literacy. Help them open a bank account and encourage them to save most of the money they make rather than spending it impulsively on treats.

Let them manage their money with their own bank account

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