Children like to have their own space, and organizing a play area is perfect for practicing together. Since it involves their toys and designated space, they should be part of the process. After all, teaching them the value of cleaning up after themselves is a great opportunity to reinforce learning activities such as sorting, counting, sharing and grouping.
Here are few areas which need to be set-up for your loving children.
Assign Activity Stations
Set up an easel and paint area on an easy-to-mop floor, put games on a table surrounded by cushions and clear a flat surface for playing blocks. Think about how the space will be used and plan accordingly.
Store According to Age
Younger children like to open bins and boxes on lower levels, while seen rarely get played with. Store your kid’s toys by categories in labeled or clear bins. Older children can use levels, and closets, try to keep everything in reach.
Use Picture Labels
For kids that can’t quite read yet, use photographs of a container's contents. Other options are using instant film, printed digital snaps, or images cut out of a magazine.
Avoid Using Large Boxes
Toys buried at the bottom are rarely played with. Keep your kid's toys grouped by categories in labeled or clear bins.
Encourage Imaginations
Your old scarves, hats, gloves and other fun items store them in baskets to encourage dress up.
Keep Boxes Around the House for Easy Transfer
Even if you are fortunate enough to have a separate area where your kids play, toys have a way of showing up in darndest places. Keeping a bin handy will make the nightly toy roundup a snap.