The Pre-Gift Declutter: A Kid-Friendly Guide to Making Room for New Toys
Help your kids make space for what’s coming — without the tears (yours or theirs).
The holiday season is filled with magic, memories… and let’s be honest — more stuff. If you’re already wondering where the new toys are going to go, now is the perfect time to do a little pre-gift decluttering.
And yes — it is possible to do this with your kids, without turning it into a meltdown marathon. In fact, when done thoughtfully, this process can actually help them develop gratitude, generosity, and a greater sense of ownership over their space.
Here’s how to make the pre-gift declutter a positive, empowering tradition your whole family can embrace.
🧠 1. Set the Stage (and the Tone)
Start by explaining why you're doing this — not as a punishment or cleanup drill, but as a way to make space for new things and help other kids in need.
Try saying something like:
🗣️ “The holidays are coming, and that means new toys! Let’s go through what we have now so we can make room for the things you’re really excited about — and donate the ones you don’t play with to kids who might love them.”
💡 Keep it positive, not shame-based. This is about growing, not guilt.
🧸 2. Make It a Special Event
Turn it into a “Toy Swap Prep Day” or a “Toy Donation Celebration.” Set a timer, play music, and work side-by-side with your child.
Give them a few guiding categories:
Keep – toys they truly love and use
Pass On – toys they’ve outgrown or don’t use
Maybe – toys they’re unsure about (you can revisit these later)
💡 Use bins or laundry baskets to sort quickly. Keep the energy light and low-pressure.
📦 3. Start with the Easy Stuff
Begin with broken or missing-piece items — these are usually easier for kids to let go of.
Then move on to:
Duplicates (how many puzzles do they really use?)
Toys they’ve outgrown (especially baby/toddler items)
Things they haven’t played with in months
💡 Sometimes kids need to “see” how much they have to appreciate it — laying items out helps.
🗃️ 4. Create Boundaries, Not Battles
Use physical limits as helpful guides — not threats.
🧺 “These stuffed animals need to fit in this bin.”
📚 “You can keep 10 books on your shelf. Let’s pick your favorites.”
🚗 “All cars go in this drawer. If it’s full, it’s time to let some go.”
💡 Let the bin or basket be the “bad guy,” not you. It gives kids a sense of choice and control.
🛍️ 5. Involve Them in Giving Back
If your child is old enough, take them with you to drop off donations at a local charity, shelter, or toy drive.
Talk about:
Who might receive the toys
How they’re helping others
What it feels like to give something meaningful
💡 This builds empathy and helps make the process feel purposeful — not like a loss.
📋 6. Organize What Stays
Once you’ve decluttered, give the remaining toys a fresh home:
Group by type (cars, dolls, puzzles, art)
Use clear or labeled bins
Keep only what fits in the designated storage area
Involve your child in deciding where things go
💡 This resets their space — and gives them pride in maintaining it.
🎁 7. Make It a Holiday Tradition
The pre-gift declutter isn’t just a task — it can become a meaningful holiday ritual.
🗓️ Do it annually in early December
👨👩👧👦 Make it a family event with hot cocoa and music
📦 Track what you donate together
💡 It creates a natural rhythm of gratitude, giving, and intentional living — even for little ones.
Ready to Declutter With Less Stress?
Decluttering with kids doesn’t have to be a battle. With the right tone, timing, and systems, it can be a heartwarming (and productive) part of your holiday season.
Need Help Organizing Your Playroom or Toy Zones?
If your kids' toys are taking over the living room or you want a system that actually sticks, I’d love to help. Together, we can create a kid-friendly space that works for your family — and grows with them.
👉 Click the button below to get started before the gift-giving begins!
A.T. Home Organizing provides professional home organizing services in Austin, TX and surrounding areas. We help our clients feel less overwhelmed in their homes by decluttering, organizing, and setting up systems that last. Click here to book a free consultation so you can feel more at peace in your home.
