My kids’ playroom has two modes: spotlessly clean and well-loved. Though the neatnik part of me cringes at the chaos of the playroom, I try not to get too picky about how “neat” it is, but rather making sure it’s safe to play in. Storage containers help.

Though I like to place like things with like (all the Barbie clothes in one bin, all the My Little Ponies in another), my daughters don’t seem to mind if things are intermingled – in fact, they prefer it. Instead, I focus on having storage containters to hold all their gear and let them determine where things go.

Mary Poppins had the right idea – if you make it a game, it’s a little easier to tolerate. Cleaning a playroom can lend itself to practicing your basketball skills. Put a storage tub in the middle of the room and let your kids throw their stuffed animals in. Be sure, of course, that there is nothing fragile (windows!) nearby, and you probably won’t want them throwing things at each other. Or you!

In our playroom we utilize a storage system like that picture above, as well as large tubs or buckets to hold all their gear.

What’s your favorite way to help your kids get organized?