Advice for living with toys
“If you need to create a toy nook in your living area, embrace it and make it look as good as you can. Perhaps a tent, cushions and a basket of books or a craft desk with hidden storage.” - Steph.
“I found two massive cane chests that I kept in the living room when we lived in an apartment, and every evening I would just pile all the toys back in them and shut the lids! I could even throw a couple of cushions on top and pretend like it was a grown up space again for a minute. Good storage is always the answer.” - Alexis.
“Grab some plastic tubs from Officeworks or Ikea, pack up a couple of them and store them in the cupboard or garage and start rotating your toys. It means less mess and the kids actually get more excited when it's time to change it over.” - Kate.
“Utilise your local toy library. There is nothing better than returning toys! Donate, gift or swap with friends. I swear, having fewer toys in a child’s environment makes them play with each toy more and allows them to focus and play more creatively. The toys you do have, sort into individual boxes or baskets. This allows kids to learn to play with one at a time. If they are all in together inevitably you will have toys all over the place.” - Steph.
“I’ve realised life is too short, and to simply let kids run (within reason) wild and free until dinner time, when everything gets packed away. What’s the point in having fab toys unless you can use your imagination and play with them?” - Charlotta.
Tips for baby-proofing your adult decor
“Washable couch covers have been our lifesaver! And soft-edge furniture like coffee tables and hall tables. I had a marble coffee table that caused a lot of bruises early on. It had to go.” - Steph.
“Pre-kids I loved trinkets. I had coffee tables with books, candles, pieces of coral and dishes filled with momentos. Needless to say, none of that has been seen in about seven years. But they’ll be back! I invested in a big cabinet with glass doors at the top so I can still safely display some things where the kids can’t reach.” - Alexis.
“When our firstborn started crawling and walking, I put away anything that he could possibly reach. Then my nan came over from Sweden and told me not to worry about it. She told me if kids see the same things all the time, they lose interest and move on to something else. I’m not saying to put your crystal glasses within reach of your toddler, but you can have an adult home even when living with tiny people. Also, don’t sweat the small stuff, most things can be replaced.” - Charlotta.
“If you have a rug or even carpet, still invest in a foam play mat, it protects your (expensive to replace) carpets. These mats can easily be rolled up and secured with the velcro straps so at the end of the day you can enjoy your nice floors again.” - Kate.