Overcoming The Mess
Posted on April 11, 2008
Filed Under Focus on the Family, Life, Personal, Parenting
We home school our kids. On my occasional day off, I’ve noticed something. Every day when the postman comes by there is a race by the children to the mailbox. They are very interested in the stacks of bills and magazines and newsletters…because there might, just might, be something in there for them. After they investigate every envelope, the pile goes…somewhere. Rarely does it end up in the same place twice, though.
So when I come home from work, where can I find the day’s mail? On the desk? By the phone? In between the sofa cushions (really)?
How can a busy parent stay on top of the clutter that so easily develops from day to day, including the mail? Here’s one expert’s suggestion, specifically addressing the mail issue:
- Distribute the mail as soon as it comes in. Ask the following questions:
a) Is it junk? Toss it in the trash.
b) To whom does it belong? Put it in its rightful place.
c) Does it need follow up? Try to respond within 48 hours if possible.
d) Does it require reading? Place it in your reading file and take it with you so you can read while waiting at the doctor’s office, the dentist, to pick up a child from school.
Emilie Barnes is a nationally recognized home-and-office organization expert. Here’s another tip from Mrs. Barnes, especially to improve the clutter in a child’s room.
Children’s rooms need proper tools to keep them tidy and neat. Consider these suggestions:
a) Keep a small vacuum handy to quickly clean up messes.
b) Put up a pegboard or bulletin board to hang things on to keep things off the floor.
c) Use extra large wastebaskets with plastic garbage can liners.
d) Organize toys in plastic boxes or buckets.
e) Install closet rods (appropriate to the height of the child) so he or she can hang up their own clothes.
f) Limit snacking in bedrooms.
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