Containers for Kids - Everything in its place.

To teach kids that everything has a proper place to be stored, start out by making sure they have access to plenty of containers in different sizes. Little toys - which kids seem to have an endless supply of - require smaller containers. Rinsed out food containers with lids work great if they are clear so they can see what's inside. Ziploc bags or little zippered pouches/bags work well to keep army men, marbles, balls, and game or puzzle pieces. Smaller sized bins or boxes work well, too.

You can have fun teaching them to sort items by color into containers or help them understand that they are keeping their figurines "safe" by zipping them into their own Ziploc sleeping bags. Teaching them to sort items into like groups or categories helps them to understand orginizational principles in a fun way. And don't forget the best reason of all - so their precious items don't get lost!