How to Practice Minimalism with Kids!

Minimalism and kids. Those two things might sound like total oxymorons,but it's a lot easier than you might think! Just because you have children doesn't mean you have to live drowning in kid-clutter.
Here are a few tips to help you incorporate minimalism into your family life.

 

Be Intentional About Your Purchases

In my own life, I've been known to purchase a cheap, little toy to keep my child happy in the store. Those little purchases can add up to a lot of clutter! I've been trying to be more intentional with these trinkets. I ask myself if my child really needs another toy, what toy would actually benefit him, and if this is something that he is going to value. All of those questions do a pretty good job of weeding out those impulse purchases!

 

Evaluate What You Already Have

I like to make a habit of going through my little one's toys and clothes once a season, at least. When I go through the kid toys, I pitch any toys that aren't played with on a regular basis. I also think about whether this is something that provides value to my child's life. I tend to be a little ruthless! I also have a rule that says once we fill a certain bin, there are to be NO MORE TOY PURCHASES! This means that if something new comes in, something old comes out.

 

Practice "Sparking Joy"

Marie Kondo's books speak about a concept called sparking joy. This means that you hold each item and if it doesn't give you a positive feeling, it goes. When you put this concept into play, you're automatically going to wind up with a lot less stuff. Plus, you'll only have those things that you truly adore. You can practice sparking joy with your children by having them hold an item and ask themselves, "Does this make me happy?".

 

Give, Give, Give!

There are so many charities that will accept your old clothes and toys. Goodwill, Salvation Army and Habitat for Humanity all are great organizations. If your little one starts to pitch a fit over getting rid of some old things, let him know that the toy is going to go to someone who could use it! I also like to go through my things from time to time and give them to a needy family along with a meal. It puts things into perspective.

How do you practice minimalism?