Organizing Children's Toys: Why I Don't Use Labels
As a professional organizer, I am always happy to discuss labeling strategies for children’s spaces with my clients. Labels can be a powerful tool, but in my own home, I actually choose to skip them. My six-year-old daughter excels in creative play and solo play, and she’s quite good at keeping her space generally tidy. You might wonder why an organizer wouldn't label every bin in sight—here is the "why" behind my method and how it relates to child development.
The Science of "Less is More"
When it comes to toy organization, the best system often starts with fewer items. A study from the University of Toledo suggests that "an abundance of toys reduces the quality of toddlers’ play." The research shows that fewer toys result in healthier play and deeper cognitive development. When children aren't overwhelmed by choice, they engage more creatively with the items they have.
Managing Expectations and Executive Function
Should we expect children to clean their play spaces entirely on their own? Scientifically, the answer is no. Proper executive functioning skills—the mental processes that enable us to plan, focus attention, and juggle multiple tasks—are not fully developed until adolescence (ages 12-18). This is when critical thinking, complex planning, and refined self-monitoring truly emerge.
What this means for your playroom:
- Clean WITH them: Encourage children to participate in the process rather than expecting solo execution.
- Respect the "scene": Cognitive flexibility is still growing. Sometimes, a creative "scene" your child built should be left as-is for a day or two to allow them to return and continue with their imaginative play.
- Systems over stress: If your play space is a constant source of friction, it’s a sign the system is failing, not the child.
Why I Skip the Labels
The biggest reason I don't label in my own home? Versatility. Children’s interests evolve rapidly. A basket that housed musical instruments last week might be better suited for LEGO or play kitchen accessories this week. Without permanent labels, your storage can rotate and grow alongside your child without the "system" feeling broken or outdated.
5 Tips for a Balanced Play Space
If you want to simplify your home, try these strategies for maintaining order:
- Share Your Values: Communicate your "less is more" approach with friends and family before birthdays and holidays.
- The "Fiver" Party: Instead of traditional gifts, suggest a "fiver party" where guests bring $5. Your child can save for a larger goal or pick out one meaningful item they truly want.
- The Closet Holding Zone: You aren't obligated to keep every gift. If something isn't a fit, keep it packaged and put it in a closet. Decide later if you will return, re-gift, or donate it.
- One In, One Out: To prevent "toy creep," make it a rule that for every new toy that enters the home, one must be donated or moved along.
- Give Everything a Home: Even without labels, every item should have a specific shelf or bin where it belongs.
Ready to Reclaim Your Playroom?
If your home’s play spaces have become a source of stress rather than joy, I’m here to help. I specialize in creating sustainable, developmentally appropriate systems that work for the whole family.
Click here to book your Introductory Session with Larch Life Organizing and let’s get started!
