Take a look around and see what kind of an example you are setting for your children.  If you don't put your possessions away why should they? Use questions to decide what things to keep.  When was the last time you used or played with it?  Does it work?  Get your children involved in the process.  Trade their old toys or books into consignment or used toyshops and let them use the money to buy something new. Store your children's things so they can retrieve them by themselves.  Use clear containers with hinged lids.

Amy Goldberg is the Owner of the Runaround a Professional Organizing/Errand Service for homes & offices serving the Washington, D.C. area.