Toy Minimalism And What My Kids Gained From It!

Toy Minimalism And What My Kids Gained From It!

Lately I’ve been reading up a lot about minimalism and how it reduces stress from life. While I don’t think I can practice this fully, I am been trying to de-clutter the house and empty out the unnecessary things.

Once all the cleaning was over and I looked at the toy-room, I realized that there were hardly any toys left! What we had was a lot of lego, wooden blogs, the chalk board, balls, dolls and more of building material. Of all the art material still existed and the kinetic sand that my son is a huge fan of was there in abundance. Strangely, it has been a month since I cleaned up and to my absolute glee, here’s the change I have seen in my kids since I took up toy minimalism.

1. There was more creative play!

Initially, when I had just started minimalism with their toys boredom set in. But soon the kids began to use their basic toys to invent games and use their imagination. Sheets and blankets were brought out to make tents. Scraps of cloth were used to don capes and they used all possible imaginative cell to enjoy the most from the minimalism that they saw around them.  Having fewer toys is directly correlated with more creativity and innovation. These are traits we all want to foster in our children.

2. They were learning to share.

They realized that if they didn’t keep peace, mom would take away little bits from their toys which were already so minimal. So though they didn’t perhaps support it, they did try their best towards enhancing social behaviour. They learnt to take turns, wait and share the toys that they had. I thought this was a great way to develop social skills, tolerance and patience. It does not come naturally; therefore, it must be practiced. When you live with fewer toys children are forced to develop boundaries and limits that exercise this important social skill more frequently.

3. The kids learnt to take better care of their things.

Because they now had only a few, they were more careful. Initially the kids cared less. If one toy was damaged, the kids just picked up another. Minimalism of  toys has taught them that no replacements are ready at hand.

4. Kids learn to enjoy other activities.

Fewer toys allows your children to love books, music, coloring, and painting. And a love for art will help them better appreciate beauty, emotion, and communication in their world.

5. Kids experience more of the outdoor.

Minimalism of  toys helped my kids spend more toys outdoors. Since there isn’t a room full of fancy toys, the kids are bound to set outside developing a greater feel of nature and the outdoors. They explore more and experience the fun in outdoor play. They are also more likely to be involved in physical exercise which results in healthier and happier bodies.

6. The kids were better organized.

Minimalism also meant that there were fewer toys for the kids to clean and tidy. Now I remember how previously, cleaning was a task they couldn’t do. Not that they didn’t want to, but they just couldn’t manage. Now I realize it was just the sheer volume of toys that intimidated them! Now that there were fewer things to put in place, the kids are able to put everything in its place.

7. They spend more time with books!

This! Need I say more?!

I’m beginning to enjoy my kids and by slimming down on the toys in my home, I feel I am just enjoying my kids more. They are learning better life skills and are finding time to do so much more meaningful play.