Summer is on its way and that means two things for your kids: no more school and more time spent at home. Whether your kids are going off to day camp this summer or just hanging out at home, you’ll want to make sure their rooms are ready for the warm months ahead. We’ve put together 5 easy to-dos that will make summer organizing a breeze for you and your tiny helpers.
Kids’ Room Summer Checklist:
#1: Say goodbye to winter items.
Now that the warm weather is here (or almost here in some parts of Canada) it’s finally time to pack away those heavier and bulkier items. Put away anything that’s too warm or unnecessary for the summer. Warm sweaters, jackets and pants can all be stored in boxes and put under the bed so they’re out of the way but accessible should there be an unseasonably cold day. Take the time to donate anything that is in good condition but won’t fit your child come next winter. There’s no sense in keeping items that won’t be worn by your kid but could be worn by someone else. Bring out shorts, t-shirts and bathing suits so they’re easily accessible for summer activities.
#2: Change up bedding and linens.
Much like winter clothing, pack away any warm duvets and quilts that have been keeping your kids toasty. Opt for fun and brightly coloured sheets and duvet covers to signal the fun summer months ahead. If your kid’s room had heavy curtains to keep them warm, take them down and store them away. Curtains are another great spot to add colour and pattern to your kid’s room. Think about switching up their area rug if there’s one in their room. If you don’t want to switch it, give it a good cleaning. By switching the linens and bedding in your kid’s room to lighter summer options, it will not only will the room feel brighter it will feel cooler too.
#3: Declutter and donate.
With winter comes the holidays and it’s likely your kids received some nice presents that are now taking up space they don’t have. Have your kids go through their toys and donate anything they no longer need or play with. The same can be done with winter activity items such as skates and hockey sticks. Store away items that will be used next year and retire those that are getting a little old or small for your growing kids.
Bookcases are also a great place to organize. Dust off books and donate the ones they no longer need. You’ll be surprised by how much nicer and tidier the room looks with an organized bookcase.
#4: Dust and wipe down surfaces.
With the summer sun shining in once again, dust becomes a lot more visible. Give your kid’s desk and dresser tops a quick dusting. Look around for any dust bunnies under the bed, and cobwebs in the corners that could have formed over the long cold winter. Give blinds a wipe down too. Unscrew light fixtures and toss out any debris that’s found its way in. And last but not least, wipe down lamp shades. Open the windows wide and let the room air out for a bit.
#5: Repurpose desk area.
If your kids are at the age where they have a desk that’s used for homework throughout the year, now is the time to store away school related items until September and turn their desk into an activity area. Summer rainy days may keep kids cooped up inside, but they can still be creative and entertain themselves doing arts and crafts at their desk. Invest in some crafting materials, or give them a special project to work on this summer. They’ll enjoy having a dedicated space to work and you’ll enjoy some time off.
A clean and freshly organized room will help make the hot summer months feel a little bit cooler. Try these tips and let us know how it goes, the hardest part will be keeping it clean all summer long.
