Smart storage can be a parent's friend
The having a child instruction manual may have talked about 2am feedings and bouts of colic, but it may not have mentioned that having kids often means acquiring a household of stuff designed to care for and amuse these little ones - including lots and lots of toys. If spring cleaning means taming the toys and games in the home so that the living room doesn't look like an aisle in Toys "R" Us, keep in mind that it's possible to maintain some style in the home while cohabitating with the kids. Look for items that can hold kids toys and accessories but don't look like they were designed for kids. Nix the primary-coloured plastic bins for something more sophisticated, like an upholstered ottoman with a hinged cover for storage inside. Turn wicker baskets and other sleek accessories into toy bins. Even magazine holders and desk organization accessories can hold small figurines and children's books. Parents can even reserve one or two drawers in a bureau or china cabinet to quickly stash toys when company is coming over.