Make A Rainy Day an Organizing Day!

It's summer in Rochester and there is no shortage of rain! I can almost hear the litany of children's voices singing the "I'm Bored Blues". Rainy days are perfect for organizing! Organizing is like a puzzle! I know there are some of you who are doubting that your children would be interested in organizing. What I can tell you is that most of the time when I am organizing, the children always want to help. Many times, we uncover a favorite item that was believed to be "lost" but was merely underneath a pile of clutter.

With a few supplies and a little creativity, you can keep your children engaged for hours! Here are some suggestions on how to create "kid friendly" organizing tasks:

Start with areas that have items the kids will use. Such areas might be the basement or garage where sports equipment, pool supplies, and toys are often stored. Summer is the perfect time to take an inventory of what you have on hand so that you are prepared for all those barbeques and sleepovers. It is also a good time to set unwanted items aside for garage sales. You can use the proceeds towards a fun summer activity!

Provide an ample supply of different sized storage containers and shelf space. This can be a little painful if you have shelves that are already full. Nonetheless, you will need to clear them. Start with one section so it doesn't seem overwhelming. I am known to literally "dump" everything on the floor and start from scratch. It lets you survey the array of items that need to be organized. It's like opening a new jigsaw puzzle!

Use that rain water! Set some of those dirty garage or basement items out in the rain to help wash them off. While the rain might not get all that grime, at least you are putting it to good use. Keep a garden hose handy for additional rinsing.

Have snacks and beverages handy. Organizing involves physical activity, so people tend to get hungry and thirsty. While you are at it, put some good music on! Before you know it, everybody is having fun and by then, maybe the rain will be gone!



Unleash Your Organized Me!