Tis the season for hearing “I want that!” If your kids are like mine, the Christmas list is looooong this year!

But they are tripping over their toys now! Where are you going to put more toys (and books, puzzles, art supplies, movies….)?

Here are a few ideas for passing along your fun but rarely played with toys before the new ones arrive under the Christmas tree!

1. Donate them to your church or day care. Nurseries and day cares always need new toys! Make sure you talk to the appropriate people before donating. They may have rules about toys with small pieces or toys that make a lot of noise.
2. Toys and baby items are always appreciated at crisis pregnancy centers. They will often also pass along your maternity clothes if you want to clean out your closet while cleaning out the toys.
3. Women’s shelters need stuffed animals and toys for the children who come with their moms for help. This time of year they also need coats and other winter apparel.
4. Host a toy swap with friends who have children close in age to your children. If you do this with a large group, you may want to draw numbers to see who gets to choose first, second, and so on. You don’t want to all fight for the same toy!
5. Check to see if there is a Freepeats in your area! It’s a great way to pass along baby, kid, and maternity items.
6. Sell your gently used toys on Ebay, Craig’s List, or at a consignment shop (Kid to Kid is my favorite).

Take time before Christmas to make room for new toys. Someone else will appreciate getting “new” toys from you!