All. Those. Papers.

If you have kids, you have papers: worksheets, art projects, permission slips, newsletters, schedules, lists, waivers, and so much more. Managing the paper is a chore and if you let it go, that stack of papers can seem overwhelming.

Erin MacNeill, Designer and Owner of Willow and Grove Design, gave us some expert tips on managing clutter. We asked her how to get a home organized.

MacNeill said, “Clear the clutter! Use bins or baskets that you cannot see into. Wire baskets look nice, but when you see what’s inside of the bin, it still looks cluttered. Try bins or baskets that are not see-through. The only downfall here is that you always have to remember what’s where!”

MacNeill said, “Start small. Sometimes cleaning out and de-cluttering can be overwhelming. Start with one drawer, or one bin- get that done to where you’re happy, and move on!”

MacNeill said to find ways to streamline, sharing an example from her own family. “My daughter brings home A LOT of drawings/art every day from daycare. If I kept them all, my home would be drowning in papers! There are so many great alternatives to holding on to every piece of art from our kiddos. Showcasing or highlighting some of their pieces on a cork board, or on the fridge, is a great way to be a proud parent without keeping everything! Better yet: have your little one choose what they want to highlight for the week.”

Maintaining order and preventing clutter from creeping in is a constant battle for busy families. Developing a system for dealing with papers, and learning not to keep every single thing, can help to keep your home in order so you have time to enjoy it.

MacNeill said, “Avoid putting too much pressure on yourself to get the house clean or sorted! Think of it as a journey. Take small steps… it’ll get done – and if it doesn’t? Well, then go outside and enjoy spring!”

Willow and Grove is an advertising partner with BlueWaterParent.com. To read about seasonal home design trends, click here. To read about using fragrances in your home, click here.