EP 125: How an Organized Playroom Benefits You, Mama
Hey there, friend — how the heck are you? It has been quite literally a hot second (okay, more than a second) since I’ve shared a solo episode or written a fresh blog post. But here we are — back at it, and I’m so happy to be here with you.
It’s been over a year since I last recorded a solo episode or posted a personal update, and during that time, a lot has changed.
A Little Life Update
A little over a year ago, we made the big decision to let go of our wonderful nanny — who I truly love — so I could step into the role of being Eleanor and James’s primary caregiver. That shift came with some major changes, the biggest being cutting my workweek down to just 15 hours. One of the things I had to set down for a while? Weekly podcast episodes and blog posts.
But truthfully, I’ve missed being here — connecting with you through stories, encouragement, and simple strategies that make life as a mom just a bit easier.
So here I am, back with a fresh post and a topic that has been so heavy on my heart: how an organized playroom benefits you (not just your kids).
But first — quick kiddo update:
Eleanor is now 4 and in Pre-K3. She loves spelling her name, coloring, and blasting “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift. A true gem.
James is 2.5 and talking up a storm. We recently potty trained him (woohoo!), and it’s been amazing to watch his little personality bloom.
Now let’s talk about you.
Why Your Playroom Setup Matters for Your Sanity
If you’ve ever walked past your living room or playroom and felt a weight settle on your shoulders, you’re not alone. I feel it in my chest, my neck, my jaw — like the mess is calling out to me: Hey, pick me up. I’m still here. You forgot me.
One mom friend once told me her piles of toys felt like they were screaming at her. And honestly? That hit hard — because I’ve been there, too.
When your environment feels chaotic, your mind often follows. This is what my favorite author Gretchen Rubin calls “outer order, inner calm.” When your space is in order, your mind feels more at ease. The opposite is also true: outer disorder can lead to inner stress, overwhelm, and disarray.
So today, I want to walk you through three specific ways an organized playroom can benefit you, mama. Because yes, it’s good for the kids — but it’s also good for your peace of mind.
1. Less Time Cleaning Up = More Time for You
Let’s start with the obvious but oh-so-important benefit: when your playroom is organized, it takes way less time to clean up.
When toys have a clear home — when your bins, baskets, and shelves make sense — cleanup becomes faster and easier. And not just for you… for your kids, too.
Even James, at 2.5, knows where things go. Eleanor knows where to put her books, dress-up clothes, and doll stuff. Is it perfect? Nope. But it’s a vast improvement from days of toys scattered across the floor for what felt like forever.
When you create a space that helps your kids succeed with cleanup, it changes everything.
For example, we currently have a simple system in our playroom: an “Eleanor” bucket and a “James” bucket. On a regular day? These buckets are not Pinterest-worthy. But you know what? The kids use them. They know where things go, and they use the system. I’ll take that 10 out of 10 times.
Imagine this: Your kids finish playing, and cleanup takes 5 minutes instead of 25. That’s time you get back — to rest, tackle your to-do list, or finally drink your coffee while it’s still warm.
2. Less Toy Clutter = Less Visual Clutter (and Mental Clutter)
Let’s talk clutter. Because “toy clutter” isn’t just about toys — it’s about your mental load.
Every time you glance at a messy, overflowing toy corner, your brain registers it as one more thing to deal with. And let’s be real: your mental plate is already full.
By cutting down on toy clutter, you reduce visual stimulation, which gives your nervous system a much-needed break. You’re not constantly scanning and silently listing all the things that need to be picked up, sorted, or moved.
You can actually relax in your own home.
I call this visual noise, and as a mom, I’ve become super sensitive to both visual and auditory stimulation. When I’m already on edge, the clutter — the noise — is what tips me over the edge.
Here’s a real-life example: I recently worked with a client on her playroom, and after we decluttered and added just a few simple systems, she looked at me and said, “I feel like I can breathe in there now.” We didn’t do anything fancy. We just made it work for her and her kids.
3. More Independent Play (Yes, Really!)
Here’s a game changer: an organized space leads to more independent play.
When toys are accessible, not overwhelming, and easy to find, kids want to engage. And they stay engaged longer.
Of course, independent play is a learned skill — especially if your kids are used to you entertaining them. But they can do it. And when the space invites them to play, they’ll show up.
Think about it this way: if you walked into a room where every drawer was open, stuff was everywhere, and nothing was easy to find — would you want to hang out in there? Probably not. Your kids feel the same.
When you create an organized play space, it not only supports your kids’ creativity, it gives you those magical little pockets of peace: to prep dinner, switch the laundry, make a phone call, or simply breathe.
Final Thoughts
While this post is focused on how playroom organization benefits you, I know that as a mom, your kids are never far from your thoughts. The beauty is: by creating a more functional, calming space, you’re serving both your needs and theirs.
So here’s your permission slip: it’s okay to prioritize your environment. It’s okay to want a space that feels good for you. Because when you feel better, your whole home benefits.
And if this is something you want help with? Keep an eye out — I’ve got a few exciting things coming your way.
You’ve got this, mama. And I’m cheering for you, every step of the way.