3 Keys Thursday: 3 Keys to Organizing with Kids

Dodgerton Skillhause via Morguefile

Yesterday, I suggested giving kids the opportunity to organize their way. But, how are they -- or you-- supposed to figure out what their way is?

Watch what works. Much of organizing is trial and error. Paying attention to when things go smoothly and when they don't can yield clues as to not only what tools to use but how to time the clean-up.

While younger children are pretty much committed to whatever system you set up, older kids (elementary age and up) can -- and will -- tell you what they like and what they don't like. Simply asking your child why a tool doesn't work or what he or she thinks might work better can show that you're interested in their option and help them begin thinking strategically about organizing.

As you and your child try out new tools and strategies:

Keep it simple. The fewer steps, the better. Bins without lids that let them simply drop things in (Hooray! It's away!), open (or pop up) hampers that let them toss dirty laundry somewhere besides the floor, and drawers with organizers that let them see at a glance where something belongs can make it as easy to put things away as it is to simply put them down.

Keep it interesting. While the way a container looks doesn't attest to its quality, it might make your child more likely to use it. Any investment they make in the selection of or logic behind the organizer can help them develop ownership in the organizing process.

Keep it positive. Organizing is a series of small steps, not a one-and-deal. Noticing each small success and helping your children troubleshoot when obstacles arise can help them develop confidence in their ability to pull off this sometimes challenging life skill.

If you're thinking it's easier to just do it yourself, I'm here to tell you that you're probably right. But do you really want to commit to doing it yourself for the long haul?