Is It Time For a Toy Cleanse?

Are you tired of tripping over toys or having too many toys in your home that your child doesn't even play with? Then it's time for a toy cleanse.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the sheer amount of toys your child has accumulated, it may be time for a toy cleanse. This process can help simplify your child's toy collection, making it easier for them to engage in deeper play and reducing clutter in your home. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps to do a toy cleanse, using the Simplicity Parenting Toy List as a guide.

Simplifying your child's toy collection, bedroom, and/or playroom doesn't require squirreling away toys when your kids aren't watching or yelling and screaming that there's too much stuff. (I've done both!) 

Once I discovered Simplicity Parenting and the Simplicity Parenting Toy List, I learned to reap the benefits of the Waldorf educational model that encourages children to explore and engage in imaginative play.  

After years of simply moving clutter around, a this toy cleanse provided me with a variety of multi-use toys that sparked imagination, deeper play, and a happier, healthier home.

Bonus: There is no more screaming about the house being a pigsty. 

I wrote the original toy cleanse article over five years, when my daughter was almost five years sold. In 2023, it was time for an update, and so this article was born. 

The page is new in 2023, but the information is not. This post contains the information about the original toy cleanse, with before and after photos, as well as a 2023 (five years later!) update. Enjoy!

A Step-By-Step Toy Cleanse Guide

Step 1: Explain the Toy Cleanse to Your Child

Sit down with your child and explain that you want to simplify their toy collection so they can enjoy their toys more and move around their room more easily. Assure them that you're not getting rid of everything, but rather, you'll be creating a list of their favorite toys to keep. This conversation is important as it helps your child feel involved in the process and less anxious about the changes.

Step 2: Create a List of Your Child's

Favorite Toys

Have your child make a list of their favorite toys. Do this away from any visible toys to avoid any impulse additions to the list. If your child is hesitant to make a list, prompt them by asking what their favorite toys are. The goal here is to have a concise list of toys that your child loves and plays with often.

Step 3. Promote thoughtful additions

to the toy list

Prompt your child to include some toys you know they love that might not be top of mind. These could include toys like building blocks, stuffed animals, musical instruments, and more. It's essential to be mindful of not including toys that they rarely play with. Remember that the goal here is to simplify and streamline their toy collection.

Step 4: Create a Toy List

The Simplicity Parenting Toy List is a great resource to help you determine what toys to keep. This list includes high-quality, open-ended toys that encourage imaginative play and creativity. The list is designed to help reduce clutter in your home, promote deeper play, and foster stronger connections between family members. The list includes items like dolls, dress-up clothes, musical instruments, and art supplies, among others.

Let us send you a copy of

The Toy Cleanse Planner Worksheet

plus the occasional life-changing parenting tip or trick! 

Send It!

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Step 5: Sort, Remove, and Store Toys

Once you have your list of toys, it's time to sort through your child's toy collection. Use black trash bags to sort through toys and reduce the risk of your child asking for a toy that has already been set aside. Place the toys that you're keeping in a box or bin, and store them out of sight. Make sure to keep them accessible, so your child can access them easily whenever they want to play.

Step 6: Donate Unwanted Toys

Rather than throwing away unwanted toys, consider donating them to a local charity or shelter. This not only helps declutter your home but also provides toys for children who may not have access to them otherwise. Remember to only donate toys that are in good condition and can be enjoyed by others.

Afraid You'll Miss The Toys?

Pro Tip!

If you're worried about permanently parting with stuff during a toy cleanse, box them up in stackable, opaque (not see-through) containers and store them away. Then you have them if you need them! 

The process of doing a toy cleanse can be overwhelming, but the benefits are worth it.

By simplifying your child's toy collection, you create a calmer and more intentional living space for your family.

And involving your child in the process and explaining why you're doing it, you can help them adjust to the changes and feel empowered in the decision-making process.

If you follow the steps outlined above, and you'll be well on your way to a simpler, more intentional home.

Final Thoughts On A Toy Cleanse

Involving your child in the process of purging their toys can be beneficial. Sit down with your child and explain that you want them to enjoy their things and move in their room. Then ask them to help you make a list of their favorite toys.

Be sure to do this away from any visible toys, so they don't add unnecessary items to the list. And encourage them to choose high-quality, fun items that allow them to engage in imaginative play.

By cleansing your home of excess toys, you can create a more intentional life for your family, where your child can engage in deeper play for longer periods of time.

After doing this for years, I can promise you that a toy cleanse every now and then makes life easier, calmer, and much more enjoyable!

Remember to keep only high-quality, fun items that allow your child to explore and engage in imaginative play. The Simplicity Parenting Toy List is an excellent resource that can help you and your child simplify your playroom and your life.

Ready to Start The Toy Cleanse?

Now that you know what a toy cleanse is, it's time to get started! 

• Get a copy of our Toy Cleanse Planner below, which helps you stay inspired and stick to your toy cleanse goals. 
• Check out the Simplicity Parenting Toy List if you're ready to shop. 
• Leave a comment about your toy cleanse! We'd love to hear about your experience. 

Let us send you a copy of

The Toy Cleanse Planner Worksheet

plus the occasional life-changing parenting tip or trick! 

Send It!

Your personal info is locked up tight with us. We hate spam as much as you. Unsubscribe via the email that arrives at any time.

The post How to Do a Toy Cleanse: A Step-by-Step Guide to Simplifying Your Child’s Toy Collection appeared first on Lies About Parenting.

Favorite Tween Jewelry Style From "Adult" Brands

Okay, so my tween personally scrolled through these with me and selected her favorites, both for her and her friends. I quickly saw a trend of delicate styles with a modern twist being the favorite.

Oh, and we try hard to be inclusive at LiesAboutParenting.com. While we talk about girl style, we simply mean that: style. Every tween deserves to wear what makes he, she, or they feel best. This is an inclusive space and we want you to know you are welcome here just as you are. XOXO 

LAP worked with Responsival agency and was compensated to review some of the jewelry in this post, but opinions are 100% honest and our own (if we don't like the product, we don't publish!).

Birthstone studs or drop earrings

Whether you choose studs or drop earrings (we're a fan of drops), her birthday will never change and birthstone jewelry is a solid bet. Again, aim for simple and delicate. We found these on Etsy and we love these drop birthstone earrings by Alex and Ani

Alex and Ani Birthstones Drop Earrings

Buy Now Our Review

on Amazon (they're geared towards teens and tweens). But the ones we are eying for ourselves are over at Aurate. Either pair will on trend and oh so sweet. Also check out Maison Miru, who make flat-backed nap earrings that are amazing! 

Animal earrings

Sloths sleeping on huggie hoops? YES, please! We have heart emoji eyes over here. These little guys are sure to make your 10 year old smile. The finish and delicate nature give them a timeless (not little kid) style. They're affordable and on Amazon. Check them out here.

Sloth Huggie Hoop Earrings 925 Sterling Silver

$31.99 $29.99

Buy Now Our Review

03/20/2026 12:21 am GMT

Our Favorite Earrings:  Jewelry For 10 Year Old Girl

Celestial Style

Whether you splurge on 14k gold huggies or stick to the more affordable (but just as pretty) gold vermeil, gold earrings will always be a hit. Stick with ones that are on the delicate, lighter side. Our favorites (I just ordered one!) are the gold and diamond pave moon earrings. You can get away with buying a single if your tween has a second piercing in one ear. There are tons of affordable options if you filter for gold vermeil. 

Shop Aurate.com

Harry Potter Forever

This book is timeless, and so are these Alex + Ani Harry Potter gold earrings on Amazon. As an adult, I often pull out a pair of earrings that were given to me as a tween to wear. They get more special with age. A simple gold or silver pair will be around for years to come. 

Alex and Ani Harry Potter Glasses Earrings

$47.50 $40.00

Buy Now Our Review

03/20/2026 12:22 am GMT

Check Them Out On Amazon

birthstone studs

Whether you choose studs or drop earrings (we're a fan of drops), her birthday will never change and birthstone jewelry is a solid bet. Again, aim for simple and delicate. We found these on Etsy and we love these drop birthstone earrings by Alex and Ani on Amazon (they're geared towards teens and tweens). The ones at Aurate are cute, too. Either pair will on trend forever. Also check out Maison Miru, who make flat-backed nap earrings that are amazing! 

Shop Alex + Ani on Amazon

Animal Earrings

Sloths sleeping on huggie hoops? YES, please! We have heart emoji eyes over here. These little guys are sure to make your 10 year old smile. The finish and delicate nature give them a timeless (not little kid) style. They're affordable and on Amazon. Check them out here.

Check Them Out On Amazon

The post Jewelry for 10 Year Old Girl (Gift Ideas!) appeared first on Lies About Parenting.

Product Image	Product Name / Primary Rating / Price	Primary Button / Pros / Cons / Description
Best Full-Size	Nomadix Original Towel – Perfect for Beach, Pool, Travel, Camping, Yoga Primary Rating: 4.7 $39.95	Buy Now Pros: Quick drying Absorbs moisture Fun prints Cons: Some say they're a bit narrow Description: The Nomadix towels are our family's best towels for camping. Modern designs, nice weight but quick-dry, and they also make a smaller, super lightweight towels that has been perfect to stash in the car or use on the dog. Worth the investment!
Best Quick Dry	ECCOSOPHY Microfiber Beach Towel Primary Rating: 4.3 $35.24$27.59	Buy Now Pros: Super fast-drying Lightweight Quick-drying Cons: Wipes off moisture rather than absorbing it Description: The Eccosophy towels are actually two very lightweight layers of microfiber that are stitched together around the edge. It weighs almost nothing and has performed very well in all our testing. Personally, I prefer a bit more weight and the single layer of thicker microfiber that Tesalate and Nomadix offer, but my sister-in-law has taken this towel as her new favorite.
Best Lightweight	Nomadix Ultralight Towel: Melt Kingston Primary Rating: 4.4 $30.95	Buy Now Pros: Easily packable Lightweight Small is great for travel and on-the-go Cons: Less absorption than full-size version Description: Seriously, these Nomadix towels are the best. Simply hang them up, even covered in sand, and when dry, give it a good shake. EVERYTHING came off, every time. Which was necessary when camping with no washing machine for almost two weeks!
Kids & Pups!	ECCOSOPHY Kids Camping Towel & Pouch | Quick Dry & Sand Free Primary Rating: 4.1 $24.99	Get It Now Pros: Great size for kids, dogs, & travel 60"x30" Comes with storage pouch Super Quick-Dry Sand-free - just shake it out 10+ fun patterns to choose from Cons: None - we're impressed! Description: 60" x 30" with a storage pouch is perfect for kids and even the pups. 10+ cute patterns to choose from.

Best Full-Size

Nomadix Original Towel – Perfect for Beach, Pool, Travel, Camping, Yoga

Primary Rating:

4.7

$39.95

Buy Now

Pros:

• Quick drying
• Absorbs moisture
• Fun prints

Cons:

• Some say they're a bit narrow

Description:

The Nomadix towels are our family's best towels for camping. Modern designs, nice weight but quick-dry, and they also make a smaller, super lightweight towels that has been perfect to stash in the car or use on the dog. Worth the investment!

Best Quick Dry

ECCOSOPHY Microfiber Beach Towel

Primary Rating:

4.3

$35.24$27.59

Buy Now

Pros:

• Super fast-drying
• Lightweight
• Quick-drying

Cons:

• Wipes off moisture rather than absorbing it

Description:

The Eccosophy towels are actually two very lightweight layers of microfiber that are stitched together around the edge. It weighs almost nothing and has performed very well in all our testing. Personally, I prefer a bit more weight and the single layer of thicker microfiber that Tesalate and Nomadix offer, but my sister-in-law has taken this towel as her new favorite. 

Best Lightweight

Nomadix Ultralight Towel: Melt Kingston

Primary Rating:

4.4

$30.95

Buy Now

Pros:

• Easily packable
• Lightweight
• Small is great for travel and on-the-go

Cons:

• Less absorption than full-size version

Description:

Seriously, these Nomadix towels are the best. Simply hang them up, even covered in sand, and when dry, give it a good shake. EVERYTHING came off, every time. Which was necessary when camping with no washing machine for almost two weeks! 

Kids & Pups!

ECCOSOPHY Kids Camping Towel & Pouch | Quick Dry & Sand Free

Primary Rating:

4.1

$24.99

Get It Now

Pros:

• Great size for kids, dogs, & travel 60"x30"
• Comes with storage pouch
• Super Quick-Dry
• Sand-free - just shake it out
• 10+ fun patterns to choose from

Cons:

• None - we're impressed!

Description:

60" x 30" with a storage pouch is perfect for kids and even the pups. 10+ cute patterns to choose from.

03/04/2025 12:13 am GMT

Nomadix Original Towel

$27.13

Buy Now Our Review

03/20/2026 12:16 am GMT

Best Quick-Drying

ECCOSOPHY Camping Towel

$35.24 $27.59

Buy Now

03/04/2025 12:13 am GMT

Quality

So I'm picky about fabrics and this one just feels different. BUT that's because it is two very lightweight layers. If you like lighter clothes, this might be the one for you. The stitching and finishing is not super high-end, but we've been using it with no issues for months now. 

Softness

Eccosophy makes the softest towel of the bunch, no question. The type of fabric is more like shirting than car-towel chamois. Which is good if you're not getting soaking wet (lounging, not swimming). If you need towels to truly dry you off, go with one of the others. 

Ease of Use

This towel is super easy to stash in a bag and take with you. The two layers of fabric made me think it'll build up sand in between the layers, but so far that hasn't happened after being heavily used at the beach. It dries SUPER fast.  

Worth a mention: Tesalate Towels 

Tesalate sent me the towel for 2, which is a big square, and it is AWESOME. I use it as a sarong or spread it out by the lake and pool. It's heavier, but it's larger so, you know, science. This was such a close second to Nomadix but ultimately the size is just BIG. It's better for picnics and spreading out at the beach.

Get it on Tesalate's website.

The post Best Towels For Camping (Travel + Beach, Too!) appeared first on Lies About Parenting.

An Easy To Clean Humidifier

Look no further. You need a humidifier that is easy to clean.

We found one.

Just Want The Humidifier? Version 7 is the best deal right now.

Check Current Price on Amazon →

Here's how the humidifier situation used to go down in my house:

Someone comes down with a cold and you know it's gonna be a bad one. So you dig out your trusty, old humidifier - only to find it's cracked. Or smells funny. Or it has enough greenish-black mold and mildew in the tank to grow a swamp.

Just imagine what's growing in the bowels of that humidifier, in all those parts you can't get to. If you can't picture it, try cutting up a rubber ducky to see what hangs out in moist environments. Ew, gross. (You can trash that the duck now.)

The solution seems simple. A quick click on Amazon or a trip to your big-box retailer solves the problem. For $30-60 you've got yourself a brand-spankin' new humidifier.

You've also bought yourself a mold-making machine.

The Problem With Cheap Humidifiers

Vick's, Crane, Safety 1st, or a generic store brand are the typical baby humidifier options you'll come across. And they should solve the problems of dry air, congestion just like they promise. Right?

Wrong.

Don't click or pay just yet.

The Solution Is A Humidifier That Is Easy To Clean

Now if I know you, you've already read about the dangers of warm-mist humidifiers. You know all about the importance of cleaning the tanks and innards properly to cut down on mold and other nasty gunk production inside of your humidifier.

The goal of a humidifier is to soothe people – not spread disease.

The Biggest Problem

You can't clean every piece of most humidifiers. It's impossible.

We've tried.

Sure, you can run water and vinegar through them, but that doesn't solve the buildup problem. Think about the grout around your shower or tub. They're humid places with lots of steam, like humidifiers. If you don't give them a good scrub every once in awhile, gross stuff starts to build up.

Like mold.

Splashing vinegar in the corners of your shower won't solve the problem and it won't clean a humidifier properly, either. Only scrubbing will clean your shower.

And your shower has whole lot more airflow than the typical humidifier.

Do You Even Need A Humidifier?

There's another problem. It's debatable whether or not you even need a humidifier. (Hey, this is Lies About Parenting. We're dedicated to being honest.)

Research suggests that a baby humidifier will NOT help baby (or you) get over your cold or illness any faster. Doctors and medical experts say there is no marked improvement in cold duration when using a humidifier.

Okay, fine. We agree with the science. But... if you know what it feels like to wake up with a parched throat and a tongue that feels like the Sahara Desert, then you know you want a humidifier that is easy to clean around the house.

Soothing can be just as helpful as curing.

The Latest!	Our Pick!
MIRO 8 | Works with Alexa	Miro 7 | No Alexa saves you $$$
Primary Rating: 4.5	Primary Rating: 5.0
$160.55	$128.00
Buy Now	Buy Now

The Latest!

MIRO 8 | Works with Alexa

Primary Rating:

4.5

$160.55

Buy Now

Our Pick!

Miro 7 | No Alexa saves you $$$

Primary Rating:

5.0

$128.00

Buy Now

Want a Different Shape?

We get it. It's not for everyone. Here are our top picks of easy to clean cool mist humidifiers that have tanks in a more traditional style while still being easier to keep and keep mold-free:

Sleek Design (& 10% off Coupon)	Geniani Ultrasonic Cool Mist 4L w/Diffuser Drawer 4.3 $29.97 This humidifier is a standout for its unique essential oil diffuser system. Pop open a door on the side and place diffuser drops in there - no mixing in the water or staining the tank! It's a great humidifier for larger spaces and longer run times. With an easy to clean tank and wide opening, this humidifier is currently the best deal around.	10% with coupon code U7ZQ35EV Large tank (4L) Diffuser Door on side keeps oils separate Wide opening - easy to fill & clean Sleek design Water Level Viewport slightly small Buy Now
Great Value	Morento 4.5L Top Fill Humidifier w/Diffuser Drawer 4.0 $37.99 Best for a large room or space needing more humidity, this cool mist humidifier has auto-shut off and a 360 Nozzle. Customize your humidity levels from 40-80%. The diffuser drawer is great for diffusing essential oils without mixing them into the water (mixing can stain and damage interiors). Great diffuser!	4.5L tank Auto shut-off Diffuser Drawer keeps oils out of water Customize humidity levels from 40-80% Hard water might stain (clean w/vinegar) Buy Now
For Smaller Spaces	LEVOIT Top Fill Humidifier| 2.5L Tank 4.2 $29.93 The #1 Reader favorite and Amazon bestseller, this 2.5L tank is easy to fill & clean and quiet. It's a Cool Mist Air Humidifier with Auto Shut-off, BPA-Free for Safety, and 25-Hour Runtime.	Affordable Easy to clean Adjustable Best for next to bed Not for huge rooms Buy Now
4.8 Stars on Amazon!	CHIVALZ Cool Mist Top Fill Humidifier | Up to 50 Hours, Oil Diffuser, 360° Nozzle 4.4 $49.99 An extra-large humidifier with adjustable ultra-mist spray. You choose how much or little humidity you need. The essential oil diffuser drawer is awesome - simply soak a cotton ball or pad with oil and place in the drawer. No more staining the water tank. With a 6L capacity, this humidifier can run for up to 50 hours on one tank. Soft blue nightlight can be turned on and off. A great buy for rooms large and small because of its adaptability.	Extra large tank (6L!) for 50h of use Whisper quiet Diffuser drawer for oils keeps tank clean Top Fill Has nightlight Boxy design Clear tank may show spots (clean with vinegar occasionally to avoid this) See on Amazon

Sleek Design (& 10% off Coupon)

Geniani Ultrasonic Cool Mist 4L w/Diffuser Drawer

4.3

$29.97

This humidifier is a standout for its unique essential oil diffuser system. Pop open a door on the side and place diffuser drops in there - no mixing in the water or staining the tank! It's a great humidifier for larger spaces and longer run times. With an easy to clean tank and wide opening, this humidifier is currently the best deal around.

• 10% with coupon code U7ZQ35EV
• Large tank (4L)
• Diffuser Door on side keeps oils separate
• Wide opening - easy to fill & clean
• Sleek design

• Water Level Viewport slightly small

Buy Now

Great Value

Morento 4.5L Top Fill Humidifier w/Diffuser Drawer

4.0

$37.99

Best for a large room or space needing more humidity, this cool mist humidifier has auto-shut off and a 360 Nozzle. Customize your humidity levels from 40-80%. The diffuser drawer is great for diffusing essential oils without mixing them into the water (mixing can stain and damage interiors). Great diffuser!

• 4.5L tank
• Auto shut-off
• Diffuser Drawer keeps oils out of water
• Customize humidity levels from 40-80%

• Hard water might stain (clean w/vinegar)

Buy Now

For Smaller Spaces

LEVOIT Top Fill Humidifier| 2.5L Tank

4.2

$29.93

The #1 Reader favorite and Amazon bestseller, this 2.5L tank is easy to fill & clean and quiet. It's a Cool Mist Air Humidifier with Auto Shut-off, BPA-Free for Safety, and 25-Hour Runtime.

• Affordable
• Easy to clean
• Adjustable
• Best for next to bed

• Not for huge rooms

Buy Now

4.8 Stars on Amazon!

CHIVALZ Cool Mist Top Fill Humidifier | Up to 50 Hours, Oil Diffuser, 360° Nozzle

4.4

$49.99

An extra-large humidifier with adjustable ultra-mist spray. You choose how much or little humidity you need. The essential oil diffuser drawer is awesome - simply soak a cotton ball or pad with oil and place in the drawer. No more staining the water tank. With a 6L capacity, this humidifier can run for up to 50 hours on one tank. Soft blue nightlight can be turned on and off. A great buy for rooms large and small because of its adaptability.

• Extra large tank (6L!) for 50h of use
• Whisper quiet
• Diffuser drawer for oils keeps tank clean
• Top Fill
• Has nightlight

• Boxy design
• Clear tank may show spots (clean with vinegar occasionally to avoid this)

See on Amazon

How does the Miro manage to stay clean?

All The Parts Come Apart

Also known as a tankless humidifier, this baby and room humidifier is ultrasonic, tankless, and 100% cleanable. Every piece can be scrubbed, with lids to avoid tips and spills.

It Will Last A Long Time

Yes, it costs more than a cheap humidifier, but I still regularly use my original Miro that I purchased in 2015 <---10+ years ago!

You Can Clean It (For Real)

No more pretending that swishing vinegar or bleach around is actually killing all the gross stuff hiding out in your humidifier. With a Miro easy to clean humidifier, you can dissemble it to see and touch inside the humidifier, making it much easier to clean.

---

Check out the Miro

If you have Amazon Prime, you can always send it back if you don't like it. But we've been thrilled with ours!

Looking at the reviews, the bad reviews seem to be from people making the same mistake I did — not taking the time to actually read the instructions (my bad).

Give it a try. It's the best humidifier that is easy to clean that I've found after 10+ years.

I was not compensated in any way for this review, by the way, and purchased the Miro as a consumer, just like you. All opinions are my own.

See Miros on Amazon

The post The Humidifier That Is Easy To Clean appeared first on Lies About Parenting.

You may still be dizzy from sugar overload after Halloween, but sober up, dear! It’s time to talk presents, especially one that will last a lifetime: the gift-experience. 

Because there’s no escaping the fact that the gift-giving holidays are right around the corner. At our house, we’ve been receiving holiday-themed catalogs for weeks, and trust me, it hasn’t gone unnoticed by the littlest members of the family.

You know the drill: while they’re busy making lists of their most wanted material needs, us “grown-ups” are creating budgets and looking for clearance finds that even remotely fit the bill for friends and family.

And while a coffee mug that says “Hello, Gorgeous” might be perfect for your bestie, the kiddos probably won’t appreciate marked down dish towels or discounted gummy vitamins.

All of this planning, strategizing (and most importantly, spending!) is a nerve-wracking nightmare.

But it doesn’t have to be! This year, you can trim the credit card debt AND the household clutter by gifting your friends and family with experiences that they will cherish for years to come. Read on for 5 Gift Experiences everyone will love!

Memberships

My family is lucky to live in a decent sized, metropolitan area that boasts a top-rated zoo, a children’s museum, and multiple nature centers, water parks, and conservancies. But memberships to these venues can be pricey, so we usually have to pick one or two each year and we miss out on the rest.

This year, considering gifting your kids with a membership to their favorite locale. Even a season pass to an indoor trampoline park (while not super educational) gets your kids off the couch and moving. Check out the Best 50 Trampoline Parks in the World to find a great one near you.

The beauty of this kind of gift-experience is that you don’t even have to plan your outings!  With a membership, you can say “Yes!” to a spontaneous request without worrying about how much you’ll spend on the trip.

As one friend told me, “I love being able to take the kids regardless of our financial situation.” Amen to that!

You can also usually add grandparents to these types of memberships, so you might even have a built-in chaperone. Even better, you won’t be tripping over this present like that half-built robot left randomly in the hallway.

Talk about a win-win-win!

Tickets

Like memberships, tickets to a concert, musical, or other theatrical production will create a gift-experience that won’t clutter your living room floor (but will fill your heart with precious memories!).

While it might not seem like the world’s most exciting gift, you’d be surprised to learn than once your little one gets a taste of the cultural arts, they’ll ask to go back. Start shopping now for fun holiday productions like “A Christmas Carol” or “The Nutcracker”, which are both excellent options for a first-time theater-goer.

Of course, something like the symphony isn’t for everyone, so don’t limit yourself – get creative! I’ll never forget the night we took our brood to a Weird Al Yankovic concert. I had no idea if they’d appreciate his quirky, lyrical mastery the way I do (but I sure did hope so.) Turns out, they loved it!

According to my eldest, she loved it more than the Katy Perry concert we’d gone to the year before. Katy! Perry! I’m still in shock, and I still love looking at the photos we captured that night (which are digital, because of #minimalism y’all!)

Date with a VIP

Ok, this one is a favorite, but takes a little explaining. A Gift-Experience Date with a VIP doesn’t necessarily mean you can arrange for your family to have dinner with Chris Pratt (although that won’t stop me from trying!).

But you can get your loved ones together with someone they don’t get to see often and make it a special occasion.

I don’t know about you, but my kids are constantly vying for undivided attention from Grandma and Grandpa whenever they come to town. Why not capitalize on their excitement and have them spend some quality time, one-on-one? That’s a great gift for the grandparents AND the kids.

If you want to get crafty with it, create a fun and colorful certificate that can be redeemed for a fun lunch date or a sleepover.

Another fun VIP date could be with someone who specializes in a field your kids enjoy. For example, my tween has already decided that her dream job is to start her own interior design business, so I’m gifting her with a fancy lunch date that includes one of our city’s top interior designers on the guest list.

She’s going to be so excited, so keep it on the down low until after the holidays, ok? No spoilers, please!

Bucket List Adventures

Almost everyone I know has a bucket list. You know, those things we want to do during our lifetime, but just haven’t gotten around to.

Why not check something off a loved one’s list with a gift-experience that’s once-in-a-lifetime? My father-in-law celebrated his birthday recently and gave himself the perfect gift – a ride in a 1929 Ford tri-motor passenger plane.

He had a blast and is so glad he made the time. I just wish I’d thought of the gift myself! It definitely made my present (a music CD) pale in comparison. Bo-ring!

For the daredevils in your life, skydiving or bungee jumping are guaranteed to make a lasting impression. If that’s a little too daring, perhaps start with a hot air balloon ride. Did you know that some hot air balloons can soar to several thousand feet, where it’s possible to see the Earth’s curvature? How cool is that?!

Check out these tips for more information about hot air balloons and to make sure you’re prepared for your ballooning experience.

Road Tripping

A well planned and executed road trip will never be forgotten, and it’s not as difficult to plan as you think! Even a trip just a few hours from home can be filled with fun and excitement.

A great website I recently discovered called Atlas Obscura provides cool and unusual things to do in cities nationwide (as well as internationally).

For instance, did you know that there are tiny doors hidden in plain sight all around Atlanta? Neither did I, but I’ll definitely make it a part of my trip the next time I’m driving through Georgia. Thanks, Atlas Obscura!

Another fun gift-experience might include some geocaching. If you’re not familiar, geocaching is an outdoor treasure hunting game that uses GPS coordinates to find a hidden geocache (container).

Typical geocaches contain a pencil and paper for logging the finder’s name, and sometimes a small treasure you can take with you.

For more information on how to plan your geocaching adventure, check out this GeoCaching 101 Guide thanks to Geocaching.com.

Finally, if you do decide to embark on a road trip with your family, make sure you’re prepared, whether you’re traveling 50 miles or 500! The last thing you want to do is ruin a trip with poor planning. Check out these 10 ½ tips to guarantee a road trip to remember.

The Magic Is How You Remember It

No matter what you give or receive this season, remember…

[bctt tweet=”The most important part of the holidays is being present, not giving presents. ” username=”LiesAboutParent”]

Of course, it’s always thrilling to find the perfect gift for that special someone. But this year, think about a gift-experience that will leave your loved one jumping with joy and your house (mostly) clutter-free.

XOXO,

M

The post 5 Gift-Experience Presents They’ll Never Forget appeared first on Lies About Parenting.

Giving Feels So Good It Hurts

Two years ago, I was moved by a video where children from low-income families had to choose between a gift for themselves or one for their parents.

Watch it:

[video_page_section type=”youtube” position=”default” image=”” btn=”light” heading=”Amazing, selfless kids! ” subheading=”” cta=”” video_width=”1080″ hide_related=”true” hide_logo=”false” hide_controls=”false” hide_title=”false” hide_fullscreen=”false”]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OnZfRh_7tzw[/video_page_section]

These children chose a gift for their parents over one for themselves. Are you crying yet? It’s so sweet it hurts. 

At the end of the day, these kids willingly give up their dream Christmas gift, just so they can give their caregiver a present. Tears, I have tears!

So I came up with a list of simple ways to encourage the spirit of giving this holiday season.  

1. Salvation Army Santa: Next time you see a Santa collecting donations give your child a couple of dollars to drop into the collections plate.

2. Christmas toy drive: Let your child select a toy the next time you’re shopping to donate to the local toy drive.

3. Baking: Bake and distribute holiday cookies and other treats to people in your community. (Ashley and her family deliver home-baked cookies to their local fire station.)

4. Suggesting gifts: Have them help you pick out a gift for a sibling or another family member.

5. Stocking stuffers: If you hang stockings by the mantle have your children help you stuff them with treats for others.

These are little things that children can feel good about.

Kickstart the holiday season with these easy Christmas spirit ideas.

Jolly Old Nick is the embodiment of the holiday season not because of the magic sled nor the flying reindeer, but because he gives without expecting to receive.

The post 5 Easy Christmas Spirit Ideas To Encourage Giving appeared first on Lies About Parenting.

A Parent-Tested & Simplicity Parenting Approved List of Toys That Build Calm, Creative Kids (and Cut Clutter by 90%)

Before and after

Items I Kept

To round things out, I encouraged her to hold onto:

• Wooden blocks and building materials
• Waldorf play mat with a few fairies
• One shelf of favorite books
• Soccer ball
• Sewing supplies
• Art materials
• Small cleaning tools

For us, the key was balance—keeping toys that inspired open-ended play without overwhelming her space.

Before and after

Simplicity Parenting: Using the Extraordinary Power of Less to Raise Calmer, Happier, and More Secure Kids

$20.00 $16.75

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Sarah's Silks Set of 3 Playsilks | Rainbow, Sky Blue, and Purple

$46.00

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Bears, Dolls, Lovables

Do NOT trash any of your little one’s favorite stuffed animals, dolls, or lovables (blankies, etc). Create a toy rotation if you must, but it’s important to respect what your child treasures.

Keep one or two favorites, not a whole shelf. A single doll helps kids process emotions through play—choose a Waldorf-style or Corolle doll. For stuffed animals, rotate a few in and out so each gets real love. Treasured blankies or comfort items always stay.

Corolle Mon Premier Calin Baby Doll

$42.95 $39.87

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Children of the Forest

$7.55

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Baskets and Bins

Simple, low-sided baskets make both great storage and play props (a cradle, grocery cart, or doctor’s bag). Natural textures like woven baskets look beautiful and last. Skip plastic bins when you can.

Low-sided baskets are a must.

Goodpick Woven Cotton Rope Storage Basket

$18.99 $14.39

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KNELOR Kids Hooded Velvet Cloak Robe Halloween Cosutme Cape Fancy Cosplay Costumes 3 to 16 Years (S/age 3-4, Green)

$16.99

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Melissa & Doug Wooden Building Blocks, 100-Piece Set of Sorting & Stacking Toys in 4 Colors and 9 Shapes, Classic Toddler Toys for Girls & Boys Ages 2+ - FSC Certified

$27.99 $22.39

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KEVA Structures 200 Wood Building Planks Set - Building Toy Includes 200 Wooden Blocks and Idea Book - Ages 5 and Up

$52.94

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Mixed Media Sketchbook 9" x 12" - Multimedia Sketchbook Hardcover, Spiral Bound, 60 Sheets 98lb/160gsm Mixed Media Paper, Watercolor Sketch Books for Artist Supplies, Painting, Drawing &...

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The post Simplicity Parenting Toy List appeared first on Lies About Parenting.

How to Organize Kids Toys? Don’t Bother.

How to organize kids’ toys is a topic that sounds basic. Buy some storage stuff and fill it up. You find yourself turning into a broken record of,

“Just clean it up!”

“This place is a mess!”

“Put your toys away when you’re done!”

Kids aren’t leaving a messy trail because they’re lazy slobs at heart. Nope. It’s something else.

So What’s the Problem?!

Children can’t organize toys for one (very good) reason.

Their stuff has nowhere to go.

I know, I know! You worked hard to organize your home. You outfitted play areas with toy boxes, organizing cubes, containers, and more. Closets, attics, and garages hold less-used toys.

Editor’s note: Since this post, I’ve discovered the Simplicity Parenting theory by Dr. Kim John Payne and have chosen to edit down our collection of toys to the basics. Read more about the Simplicity Parenting toy list here if you’re looking to decrease the number of toys in your home (and not just organize what you already have).

All you ask is that they throw it in a bin, line it up against the wall, or jam it in a closet when they’re done playing.

Right?

It’ll never work. (Sorry.)

Children need structure. Kids don’t know how to organize toys, which means you need “a place for everything and everything in its place.”

This is a problem because kids have so many toys it’s impossible to designate a spot for each one.

Kids need to learn to cope, but they can’t learn how to organize their toys if there’s no real organizational strategy.

The BC Plan

I had it all planned out BC (Before Kids).

The coffee table had three large baskets underneath it. Bam! Built-in toy storage.

How to organize kids’ toys? Pshaw. I got this.

Epic fail. Even with sparingly filled baskets, toys were never put away. My daughter was used to putting her things away at preschool… why couldn’t she clean up at home?

The Sneaky Culprit

The containers! My child had trouble organizing her toys because she had trouble retrieving toys from the high-sided baskets.

I wasn’t organizing toys… I was hiding them.

Welcome to The Toy Exchange

 

Out went the baskets. Now 5-7 toys take up residence under our coffee table. Not the prettiest site, but I prefer a few toys out over shoving them in a bin she can’t see or against a wall. There’s a small art table off to the side with a wall organizer that contains a small, rotating collection of art supplies.

One large play item stays out at a time (kitchen, dollhouse, playhouse, tent) and we rotate upon request or when something’s gone unused for too long.

A cabinet or storage boxes like these are filled with remaining toys. We organize toys by assigning each a designated spot. My daughter completes a toy exchange by switching out a “new” toy with a played-out “coffee table toy” when she’s ready to play with something different.

___TVE_SHORTCODE_RAW__

Sterilite Ultra Latching Storage Box

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What If Your Child Forgets?

If she’s not playing with the current selection, I’ll take the lead and complete a toy rotation based on what I see her using or talking about. Older kids can do it themselves. You can get kids to organize toys.

You just have to put most of the toys away to give them a chance to succeed.

It works like a charm.

Every time your child has to throw unrelated toys together it undermines their ability to clean up.

Teach kids to appreciate their belongings by giving every item a home. Whether you have a 7-bedroom home or studio apartment, kids need to work with the space they have and so do we.

Exceptions to the Rule

Some toys that benefit from a “dump it in” mentality:

• Legos® or building sticks like these

  

  KEVA Contraptions Plank Set

  $54.99 $49.95

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  03/20/2026 12:22 am GMT

• trains

• blocks

• dolls and accessories

• dress up play (this is our fave line)

• collections of toys that are often mixed

I’ve found we don't need every piece every time.

Example: My daughter recently received a 75-piece magnetic princess play set. Score! She loves it, but 75 pieces for a 3-year-old? Wayyyyy too much. I leave out 25 pieces and rotate them. Less mess, more play.

As For Everything Else

There's no easy way to say this, so I'm just going to rip the Band-Aid® off.

Keep your child’s favorite toys. Don't learn how to organize kids' toys they don't even like. Get rid of the rest. 

Yes, giving stuff away that you or someone you love spent hard-earned money on is hard. It sucks. You're worried you'll offend someone. You're worried your child might want to play with it next week.

I get that you don't want to throw it all away.

Really, I get it.

But you work hard and care for your home. It's not your job to deal with a houseful of guilt and mess.

It'll be tough to weed out and organize toys. My advice is to involve the kids when you can.

Tips For How To Organize Kids Toys (Older Kids):

1. Prepare the space where toys will be taking up residence. We use an old armoire/tv cabinet. Low-sided baskets like these
   

   Winco Rectangular Woven Basket

   $17.70

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   and trays (love this one
   

   American Atelier Rectangular Serving Tray

   $34.99

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   03/20/2026 12:23 am GMT
   ) are always helpful for storing items with smaller pieces.
2. Open up a little. Let your kids know how draining it is to look at all the stuff all the time. Tell them you want to feel happier and spend more time with them and less time cleaning. One way to do this is to organize toys. They'll whine, offer to help clean, promise to put things away, and try to manipulate you. They're lying. Don't fall for it.
3. Empower your child. Offer up the storage space and organize toys in one sitting. It's up to them what stays. Stick around to help facilitate the cleaning, but be like Switzerland. Just stay out of it. Help them, but don't try to sway their decision.
4. Let them fill up their space with their favorites and donate/sell the rest. If your child is very attached to possessions, passing along directly to families in need will be your best bet. Have them come with you to drop off donations. It makes a difference.

Younger kids are a bit easier. I cleaned out everything I didn't want to interact with or read (yes, you read that right!), then watched my daughter for a bit. I noticed what toys she never reached for and got rid of them. A few I put away, knowing she was too young for them. That's how we organize toys.

The rest went to friends and donation. Even gifts.

A Note About Gifts

Touchy subject, right? Truly, I feel your pain. But gifts are not obligations. They're considerations. And if someone's laying a guilt trip on you because you donated a gift that's no longer used? Shame on them. They're the ones with the problem - not you.

Grandparents are often offended. It's understandable. Explain you just can't handle the amount of stuff. That there is so much stuff your child can't even play with all of it.

Ask them how much they had growing up?! This much?? Stress that you appreciate their gifts and your child has kept their favorites.

Many families find creating an online wishlist (Amazon.com is a great place to store the list) helps. I don't, but I do make a point of telling gift-buyers what my daughter really wants. Rude? Maybe. But I don't expect gifts. If they want to give my daughter something, I'm happy to point them in a direction she'll enjoy. If they want to brainstorm on their own, awesome! Everyone understands we won't keep it if it's not a hit.

Decreasing toy quantity decreases stress and increases attention span and care. It's not some crazy parenting technique. It's science. Too many choices make us less able to choose. Decision Fatigue is a real and growing problem.

There's no big trick. How to organize kids toys is about eliminating everything that doesn't get used often, is broken, or is missing pieces, and keeping out a small rotation of loved toys.

Drastically reducing the number of toys will result in a more engaged and careful child, who appreciates their belongings (most of the time).

Not to mention it makes holiday and birthday times MASSIVE hits!

I can tell we have too many toys - especially after birthdays and holidays - when toys start piling up and getting shoved on top of each other. We know it's time to weed out the old and make room for the new.

Remeber, a place for everything and everything in its place. That's how to organize kids toys.

That’s how to get kids to clean up.

Take a day and go for it. We figured out how to organize kids toys, and it works!

 

 

 

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The post How To Organize Kids Toys If You Don’t Want To Get Rid Of Them appeared first on Lies About Parenting.

Lots of things. Groceries, clothes, school supplies, toys, and more.

Things you want, things you need, things you didn’t need but bought anyway.

It’s how most of us live. It’s what we do.

Cue holiday shopping. 

’Tis the season for retailers to prey on your want-to-buy-things consumer soul. Maxed out credit cards. 10 mile long lines at 2am on Black Friday. Panic as you race to get the LAST something-or-other at Target.

All commonly reported problems.

Welcome to the Consumer’s Superbowl.

It gets nutty as a fruitcake out there. We get it. The world has things they want to sell you and they work hard to convince you to buy.

You know who else they are convincing to buy?

Your kids.

It’s all too easy for your little cherubs to get confused during the holidays. Why? Because we say holiday time is not about the gifts…and then we run around buying gifts. The contrast between what you say, and what you do, doesn’t make sense to tiny watching faces.

You say that the holidays are about love, family, spending time together, your faith, etc.

Then you run out and buy a whole lot of crap for everyone. It’s gift-giving, sort of.

Your kids are on to you.

They’re smart. They see the Amazon packages piled at the door and the stacks of holiday catalogs rolling in. Their gazes fall on the eye level display for kids at every check-out.

If you aren’t careful all this holiday hunting sends an unintended message. The message that things are more important than people.

You can unintentionally send the message that gift-giving is about getting.

What can you do?

Here are seven ways to prevent your kids from learning all the wrong things this holiday season.

1. Don’t worry about the Wow! factor. Impressing your kids with piles of presents is not the goal. (No, it’s not.) Pretty please make it anything but that. The more you fall into that trap the more they will too. Children come into this world with zero expectations. It’s up to you to show them the ropes. If you don’t want the holidays to be just about getting piles of stuff, then don’t make huge piles of stuff appear. Something they want, something they need, something to wear, and something to read is more than many “need.”
2. Do something NICE. You don’t have to hand out soup in a shelter or build a house on your winter break though if you do more power to you! Instead, try something simple. Wrap a gift for someone in need. Buy a coffee for the person in line. Take a box of toys to Goodwill. Show your kids the holiday is for giving and not just getting. 
3. Gift Experiences, not “things.” You’re the boss, dammit! If you say it’s a gift then it’s a gift! Set the bar for what your kids expect. Don’t let someone else (marketing and media, I’m talking to you) do it for you. If you want your kids to view time together as a gift, then make it a gift. Give them movie passes, karate lessons, or a trial ski-package. Whatever spins your wheels. 
4. Don’t get every single thing on their list. Don’t search the world over for that turquoise glitter winged unicorn named Storm that sings karaoke and walks backward in the rain for the low, low price of $99.99. Even if your little lady wants her SO SO bad and all the kids have one. Don’t. She will totally live. Draw the line. 
5. Stick to a spending limit. No fun, I know. It’s difficult, but paying off credit card debt into July isn’t doing Johnny and Jane any favors. They dig modern comforts like having food in the fridge and a roof over their heads. Bonus points for less stressed parents. Be the responsible grown-up and don’t let last minute gift marketing ploys do you (and your bank account) in. 
6. Kindly ask relatives to respect your limits. You don’t have to be cool with Grandma showing up with a U-Haul full of enough plastic to fill a new landfill. Set up an Amazon wishlist to show them the kinds of things you’d like your kids to receive and politely ask them to PAY ATTENTION. 
7. Give gifts that result in time well spent. Family games, books, art supplies….these will lead your child to activities you’re happy with. If you don’t want them to play 75 hours of Xbox a week, then don’t get them 14 Xbox games. You are also gifting yourself all this time that you won’t have to spend fighting with them to turn the damn thing off. Everybody wins!

Fun outside of an Xbox

It’s human nature to want more.

It’s completely normal for kids to go down that gift-giving-is-getting road. Society works overtime during the holidays (Christmas music on Halloween, anyone?) to show your kids all the great things they could have.

You don’t want them to feel disappointment. You won’t disappoint if your expectations are clear.

They aren’t going to feel like they got hosed. Seriously.

Odds are you’re the only one counting gifts.

Is that what you want your kids to see? They are going to follow your lead.

It’s your job to help them manage their desires. You are the person to teach them that happiness doesn’t come from having the biggest pile of gifts on the block.

The opposite is true. Research shows that the more “things” we wind up with, the unhappier we become. Decision fatigue sets in and we become overwhelmed with options.

Let’s make a pact for gift-giving this holiday season. Buy children less so they can enjoy more. I’m in.

Are you?​

The post 7 Ways to Avoid Gift-Giving Overload This Year appeared first on Lies About Parenting.