Why This Bedroom and Spare Room Organizing Session Was a Big Success

I just wrapped up a professional organizing session that left me feeling especially fulfilled. We tackled both the kids’ bedroom and the spare room for a family with two awesome boys—ages nine and eleven—and their equally awesome dad joined in too. The entire project was smooth and productive, and I think the success boiled down to three key things you can absolutely apply to your own home—especially if you’re organizing with kids.

1. The family already had a strong foundation of balance and connection

Right away, I could see how much structure, respect, and emotional clarity the boys receive from their parents. This family spends intentional time together—gardening, doing sports, making art, visiting friends and family—and that really shows up in their home.

They don’t over-prioritize material possessions, which meant the organizing wasn’t about “decluttering just to declutter.” It was about making space for what matters most—creativity, calm, and connection.

Organizing insight: When families model healthy boundaries with stuff, it’s easier for kids to embrace organizing as a meaningful life skill—not just a cleanup task.

2. We created a kid-friendly, sustainable sorting system

One of the most important pieces in any organizing project—especially with children—is a simple and sustainable system. Together, we came up with a way to categorize their belongings that made sense to them.

Each item had a clearly defined “home,” and the boys quickly felt confident managing the system on their own. We labeled categories, used easy-to-reach bins, and created visual cues to support them in keeping things up.

Organizing insight: A well-designed sorting and storage system empowers kids to take ownership of their space and develop long-term habits for staying organized.

3. Dad communicated a clear vision for the space

This might’ve been the secret sauce: Dad was super clear about what he wanted the function and feel of each room to be. That helped all of us—especially the kids—understand the goal of the organizing session.

Because there was a shared vision, we could make intentional choices about space planning, furniture layout, and what stayed or went. And the kids had a meaningful context for why they were organizing in the first place.

 Organizing insight: A clear vision makes decision-making faster and helps everyone stay on the same page—especially when you’re organizing with multiple people.

Final Thoughts

The finished rooms reflect the thoughtful, active, and creative vibe of this wonderful family. Everything we did was rooted in functionality, family values, and collaboration.

If you’re thinking about organizing your kids’ spaces, I hope this gives you a little inspiration. At its core, organizing isn’t just about stuff—it’s about values, communication, and creating a space where everyone can thrive.

If you need expert organizing help, don't hesitate to reach out. Visit pinkyjackson.com to schedule a free assessment. We would love to help you with our Onsite Organizing services if you are in the Louisville, KY area or our Virtual Organizing services if you are more remote or prefer to work online.

Pinky Jackson is an Organizing Expert and Decluttering Specialist. She and her team organize homes & small businesses in Louisville, KY. For more information about Pinky’s pricing & services or to schedule your free assessment, go to pinkyjackson.com

Photo: Christa Grover @dahlhouse