Kids Decluttering Podcast Episodes, Articles & Tips

Why is it that helping kids reduce clutter can feel harder than decluttering the rest of the house combined? The emotional attachment to good memories, the constant inflow of new stuff, and the pressure you might feel to “get it right” can quickly become overwhelming.

Amy Revell, founder of The Art of Decluttering shares real conversations, practical examples, and thoughtful problem-solving around kids’ decluttering, toys, gifts, and family life. These resources are designed to help parents reframe how they think about kids’ stuff, reduce stress, and create more space without battles or guilt.

Support for Families Struggling With Kids’ Clutter

Decluttering with kids isn’t really just about toys or clothes. Every item carries emotions, routines, expectations, and family dynamics – and that’s what makes it feel so hard..

At The Art of Decluttering, we support parents who feel stuck in the cycle of too much stuff, mess, and constant tidying that never seems to last.

Our work with families isn’t about forcing children to get rid of everything or chasing for picture-perfect kids’ rooms. Instead, we help families make thoughtful, realistic decisions about what stays, what goes, and how to involve kids in age-appropriate ways that actually work long-term.

Parents who resonate with this often benefit from structured support through our decluttering services and courses. These are designed to help families reduce the volume of stuff, create breathing space, and put simple systems in place that support real life – not add more effort to already full days.

Family Relationships

Common Challenges when Decluttering with Kids and Where to Start

Can Decluttering Really Be Fun for Kids?

Decluttering does not have to feel like a chore, especially for kids. This episode explores how turning decluttering into a game can reduce resistance, increase engagement, and make the process genuinely fun. Amy shares practical examples, real client stories, and ideas that families are already using successfully at home.

Discover simple ways to turn decluttering into a game your kids will actually want to play.

What’s the Best Way to Declutter and Organise Toys?

If toys feel like a never-ending mess in your house, this episode offers a calm reset. Amy breaks down how to decide what toys you want to keep, where they should live, and how to involve kids in decluttering from as young as three. It is a practical guide for parents who want less mess and more meaningful play.

Get clear on toys, collections, and how to create calmer kids’ spaces that actually work.

Can Pre-Schoolers Really Learn to Organise?

Ever wondered how early childhood educators get pre-schoolers to pack away without battles? In this episode, Amy chats with Freya, an early childhood educator and member of the decluttering team, about what really works with little ones. From routines to expectations and simple storage ideas, this episode is full of practical insight for families and childcare settings.

Learn how pre-schoolers can build organising skills that last well beyond kindergarten.

How Do You Stay Organised With Extra-Curricular Activities?

School terms can feel overwhelming when bags, uniforms, equipment and schedules pile up. This episode focuses on practical ways to organise extra-curricular activities while helping kids take more responsibility for their own gear. Whether you have one child or several, there are ideas here to help your household run more smoothly.

Learn how small organising changes can make busy school weeks feel more manageable.

How Do You Manage Dress-Ups Without the Mess Taking Over?

Dress-ups have a way of spreading far beyond the costume box, quickly turning into a chaotic pile across kids’ rooms and shared living spaces. In this episode, Amy explores how to support imaginative play while keeping dress-ups manageable, with practical ideas for storing and displaying outfits in ways kids can actually use. The conversation goes beyond costumes, touching on how dress-ups can challenge gender stereotypes and become a powerful tool for building empathy through play

Learn how dress-ups can support creativity rather than create clutter.

Are We Buying Toys for Engagement or Entertainment?

This thoughtful episode explores the difference between engagement and entertainment, and how our purchasing decisions affect kids’ play, clutter, and wellbeing. Amy encourages parents to reflect on when entertainment is helpful and when engagement is what kids really need, especially when choosing toys and activities.

Explore how intentional choices can reduce clutter and create richer experiences for kids.

How Do You Stop Losing School Books and Managing Locker Chaos?

Lost library books, damaged textbooks, and overflowing school bags are a familiar stress for many families. This episode shares practical hacks to help kids manage school books, lockers and reading materials while reducing stress for parents. There are ideas here for children at every stage of school life.

Discover how to minimise school-related clutter and cultivate more effective habits.

Why Parents in Melbourne Turn to The Art of Decluttering

Families across Melbourne come to us because they want realistic help, not judgment or rigid rules. Our work is grounded by our experiences with families who are juggling work, school, friendships, money, and the everyday mess of life with children.

Whether you’re dealing with kids’ rooms that feel out of control, a house full of toys, or the stress that comes with too much stuff, there is a podcast episode for you!.

If you are ready for more personalised support beyond the podcast, we are here to help.

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Helping Someone Start

Helping someone declutter doesn’t mean taking over. By keeping the task small, whether it’s a few minutes, one category, or a single drawer, you can reduce overwhelm and build trust. Sometimes the most helpful thing you can do is make it easier for someone to take that first step.

Winnie’s Pile of Pillows

You can love your things and still let some go. When your space sets the limit instead of your emotions, everything changes. Dana K. White gently reframes decluttering as freedom, helping you and your kids keep what matters most without the overwhelm that comes from trying to keep it all.

Bags

In this episode, we tackle the clutter that accumulates in bags—backpacks, handbags, suitcases, and more. Learn how to assess which bags you truly need and how to declutter those that no longer serve you.

Toys 101

Are toys taking over your home? This episode explores how to manage toy clutter, focusing on what types of toys to keep, where and how to store them, and strategies for involving children as young as three in the decluttering process.

Organising With Pre-Schoolers

Discover practical strategies for organising with pre-schoolers in mind. Freya, an early childhood educator and decluttering expert, shares insights on setting routines, engaging young children in tidying up, and creating an environment that fosters independence and responsibility. Ideal for parents and educators seeking effective organisational tips.

Engaged or Entertained

Explore the difference between engagement and entertainment in this thoughtful episode. Learn how to be intentional in choosing activities that align with your values, fostering creativity and meaningful connections, rather than opting for passive entertainment that may leave you feeling unfulfilled.

Extra Curricular Activities

As the school year starts in Australia and extra-curricular activities return, you may be starting to feel overwhelmed with all the running around, equipment to keep track of, sports uniforms to wash etc. Do you have multiple activities, multiple children or pre-schoolers to entertain? There are tips today for everyone!

School Books & Lockers

Discover practical strategies to manage school books and lockers, from preventing lost library books to protecting expensive textbooks. Learn how to develop routines that encourage a love of reading while reducing stress over missing or damaged materials. Suitable for all school years.

Lunch Boxes

Storing multiple lunch boxes can clutter your kitchen. This episode helps you decide which ones to keep—based on frequency of use, size, and condition—and identifies those to toss or donate. Decluttering this small category can free up precious space and simplify meal prep routines.

Drink Bottles

Reusable drink bottles are convenient—until they pile up and take over cupboards. Discover criteria for keeping, tossing, or cleaning bottles that still serve you. Learn how decluttering this small category quickly restores kitchen order and clarity while ensuring you only use bottles that match your lifestyle.

School Uniforms

School uniforms accumulate quickly—outgrown, stained, or unused. This episode guides you in sorting what still fits, repairing when possible, and responsibly donating items that aren’t needed. Practical advice helps maintain an organised closet, reduce waste, and simplify morning routines for families.

School Bags

School bags can become clutter magnets—filled with paperwork, lost lunchboxes, mismatched shoes, and stress. This episode offers practical tips to declutter, organise essentials like uniforms and homework, and create routines for managing contents daily. Enjoy smoother mornings and a more functional family space.

Devices

Many households accumulate devices—old phones, tablets, cables and chargers—that are no longer used or needed. This episode helps you navigate decluttering tech by assessing functionality, backing up essential data, responsibly recycling outdated gear, and streamlining what you keep for convenience and simplicity.

Bikes & Scooters

Declutter unused bikes and scooters by assessing their condition and usage. Organise accessories like helmets, locks, and lights for easy access. Consider donating or recycling items no longer in use to free up space and encourage active outdoor activities.

Mr Monkeyjocks

This episode explores the Bluey story “Mr Monkeyjocks,” focusing on teaching children to decide what to keep and let go. It highlights the emotional side of decluttering, the value of intentional ownership, and handling sentimental items that may not be loved by the next generation.

Return to School

As children return to school, it’s an ideal time to reset routines and declutter. This episode offers practical strategies for easing back into school life, including creating calming morning rituals, understanding your child’s unique needs, and managing school-related clutter. The goal is to foster a smoother transition and a more organised home environment.

Kids Outsourcing

Empowering children to contribute to household tasks not only eases parental stress but also fosters independence and responsibility. This episode discusses the value of investing time in teaching kids essential skills, adjusting expectations, and implementing systems like pocket money to motivate participation. Emphasising the benefits of shared responsibility, it encourages families to create supportive environments where children can thrive.

Magic Wardrobe Number

Imagine a wardrobe where every piece sparks joy or serves a purpose. This episode breaks down the concept of a “magic number”—a curated count of items that fit your style and lifestyle perfectly. Discover how to trim your closet to essentials and design a wardrobe you genuinely love.

Cleaning & Homeschooling

Narelle, a homeschooling mother of five, discusses how to combine cleaning routines with homeschooling. She highlights teaching kids responsibility through chores while balancing education and maintaining an organised home. Her approach supports teamwork and helps create a functional, tidy environment for both learning and living.

The Kids Show

A playful and engaging episode created especially for children, full of updates, fun stories, and family-friendly insights. It’s a lighthearted opportunity for young listeners to connect, feel seen, and enjoy a moment of joy and belonging—all while weaving in gentle themes of order and intention.

Lego 2

This discussion delves into the challenges and joys of managing LEGO collections. It offers practical advice on sorting, storing, and deciding whether to keep, sell, or donate sets. The conversation also touches on the common issue of missing pieces and provides strategies to address this. Listeners are encouraged to find solutions that work best for their space and lifestyle.

From Teacher to Organiser

A former teacher shares her transition into professional organising, highlighting how classroom-management skills—like patience, structure, and empathy—translate beautifully to organising homes and lives. Her journey illustrates how diverse experiences enrich the ability to guide others toward clarity, peace, and efficient routines.

Twin Life with Mandy Hose

Balancing life as a mother of twins brings unique decluttering challenges—from embracing creativity in childcare to navigating emotional overwhelm. Mandy reflects on identity shifts, her clutter nemesis, and lessons learned through hindsight. A heartfelt conversation with practical insights and a gentle touch of humour.

Games and Puzzles

Games and puzzles can quickly accumulate clutter. Regular decluttering helps keep them manageable, especially during school holidays. Donating unused items to local preschools, schools, op shops, or nursing homes benefits others. Organising tricky shapes and deciding what to keep, like puzzles missing pieces, are important steps to maintain order.

Back to School

Navigating the return to school can feel chaotic, but thoughtful routines can ease the transition. Consider each child’s morning rhythm—are they an early riser or slow to wake? Planning the week ahead ensures timely arrivals and nourished kids. Morning and afternoon workflows become smoother with intentional systems and small shifts.

Board Games & Puzzles

Board games and puzzles can create clutter, especially during holidays. Regularly declutter and consider donating to schools, preschools, or nursing homes. Tips include organising awkward pieces and deciding what to keep. Hiring giant games for events offers a fun alternative to owning many board games.

Lego

Letting go of LEGO doesn’t have to be hard. Consider selling sets or revisiting them creatively instead of storing unused pieces. The conversation is playful, supportive, and a reminder that even cherished collections can be managed with intention and joy.

It’s All My Husband and Kids Fault

Clutter isn’t just caused by others in the household. Taking personal responsibility and leading by example are key to creating a more organised home. Reflecting on one’s own habits helps foster positive change and reduces household clutter, empowering a cleaner, more peaceful living space.

Teenagers

Supporting teenagers in decluttering means encouraging independence and thoughtful choices about their belongings. Focus on what they love, use, or need, and foster positive relationships rather than enforcing tidiness. Creating a clutter-free space can improve focus and well-being, making the process smoother for everyone involved.

Our Kids

Parenting often means navigating the emotional and logistical challenges of raising kids alongside decluttering. This episode offers thoughtful insights into creating routines that support family well-being, fostering independence in children, and gently untangling the mental load. It’s a compassionate guide for managing both home and heart.

Homeschooling

Balancing education and decluttering, a mum sharing her experience with homeschooling five of her six children, highlights the importance of self-care and involving kids in chores. Her honest reflections—amid pregnancy and teaching—offer valuable parenting insights, whether you’re homeschooling or simply managing family life.

Adult Children

Navigating the challenges of adult children living at home, including boundaries, communication, and managing shared spaces. Practical tips help maintain harmony and support independence while keeping the home organised and clutter-free. Insightful advice for families balancing changing dynamics and household responsibilities.

Teachers

Teachers often accumulate many resources, materials, and stationery over time. Practical tips are shared to help declutter and organise these items, creating a streamlined workspace. Managing professional clutter boosts productivity and focus, supporting teachers in maintaining an efficient environment for their important work.

Toddlers

Managing toddler clutter can be challenging, but with intentional strategies, it becomes manageable. Engage toddlers in tidying by setting up accessible storage and making cleanup a routine. Teach generosity by encouraging them to pass on unused items. Staying organised during this phase fosters a harmonious home environment.

Baby Supplies

Minimalist parenting can ease the early years. Focus on essential items, organize what remains between children, and resist pressure from social media’s baby gear trends. Thoughtful curation and clever storage keep surroundings peaceful—and let your growing family’s needs shine clearly.

Sophie’s House

Sophie is a mum of 2 gorgeous young boys and lives in a rental property with her hubby. She is a self-confessed clutterer so asked us plenty of questions to get our tips and tricks for her own unique home and family. We adore Sophie and we had such a fun time recording this episode, so we hope you enjoy it too!

Minimalist Kids Parties

Simple and joyful celebrations don’t need excess. Host budget-friendly birthday gatherings that focus on memories—not presents—by encouraging meaningful gift alternatives, loving upcycled décor, and starting family traditions that last. These intentional parties let children—and homes—cherish moments without the weight of clutter.

Dress Ups

Dress-up costumes bring joy to play—but they can also create clutter if left unchecked. Periodically review costumes to ensure they’re still worn or meaningful. Consider donating or repurposing those that aren’t used. Thoughtful curation helps maintain a playful, accessible wardrobe without overwhelming your space.

Dance Costumes

Too many dance costumes can clutter your storage. Assess each piece for sentimental value or active use, then donate or rehome the rest. Store beloved items thoughtfully—labelled, accessible, and protected—to preserve memories while maintaining order. Smart curation ensures your home stays harmonious and clutter-free.

Kids Bedrooms

Tidy bedrooms start with age-appropriate expectations and smart systems. Focus on accessible storage, clear “homes” for toys, desks, and LEGO, and encourage routine responsibilities. Consistency helps maintain order without stress—bringing calm, clarity, and more enjoyable spaces for both kids and the whole family.

School Start

Navigating the return to school? This guide covers morning routines, lunchbox planning, school uniform preparation, and considerations for preschoolers versus older kids. Tailored tips help families create calm, confident starts to the new school year—perfect for easing stress and setting up smooth transitions for all.

Kids Books

Managing children’s books means balancing sentimental value with practicality. Create a dedicated space like a bookshelf or storage bins, review regularly, and donate books no longer age-appropriate or frequently read. Using the library and gifting books can refresh the collection, keeping it organized, manageable, and meaningful for both kids and parents.

Gifts

Gifts can accumulate quickly, leading to cluttered spaces. Some individuals prefer to buy gifts in bulk, while others purchase them as needed. To manage this, consider establishing a dedicated gift cupboard or box. Regularly assess and organize your gift items to prevent unnecessary accumulation. This approach ensures that gifts remain thoughtful and purposeful, rather than contributing to clutter.

Kids’ Artwork and School Work

Children’s artwork and school projects can quickly accumulate, leading to clutter. To manage this, consider displaying select pieces that resonate with you, while storing others in organised containers like IKEA Skubb bins. Regularly assess and curate these items to maintain a balance between preserving memories and reducing clutter.

Childrens’ Toys

Toy clutter doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start by gathering all items into one space to assess what’s there. Involve kids in deciding what stays, rotates, or goes—using methods like a ‘one-in, one-out’ rule or toy rotation to keep play areas fresh and manageable.

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