How to Organize Indoor Play Spaces for Children

Minimize clutter with an organized play space. This new space is an ideal place for incorporating creative, physical activity into your children's daily routines. An added benefit is knowing that your children are enjoying creative play, which provides many benefits.

Instructions

    • 1

      Compose a simple list that includes your child's interests. Add to the list to include your preferences. List a play kitchen area, if your kids like to pretend to cook, or an arts and crafts area for creative kids. If you wish to have a learning area in the play space, utilize a book shelf with children's books and a small table with chairs.

    • 2

      Gather supplies and group them according to activity station. Set up activity stations in their designated locations. Play areas for physical exercise and vigorous activities will need a soft foundation, such as a play mat or cushioned rug.

    • 3

      Place a toy box in the play space, for favorite toys. Eliminate toys that your children barely play with to maximize space. Use several smaller plastic bins if you wish to arrange the toys in groups (race cars, action figures, dolls).

    • 4

      Create labels with a combination of words and photos (printed photos, stickers) to place on each toy bin or toy box. Label each individual activity station. Kids learn to associate words with objects, such as seeing the word "kitchen" in the kitchen activity station.

    • 5

      Place a few hand baskets in other locations within your home, to use for loading and transporting toys back to your child's play space when toys magically appear in unwanted areas. Teach your kids to use these baskets to pick up after themselves.

    • 6

      Store outdoor toys in a separate bin and place in a storage area, until ready for use. Place outdoor toys in an organized order; so that they are ready when it is time to play outside. Keep larger outdoor toys (bikes, wagons, scooters) lined up neatly in your garage or storage area.

    • 7

      Develop a set of play space rules for your children to follow. Following rules enforces safety practices and teaches children basic skills, when tidying up the play space. Encourage your kids to follow rules daily, and to keep their play space in order.

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