At the recent event Seeds of Compassion – Children’s Day Blessings I had the incredible opportunity to host a decluttering workshop. As a professional home organizer and mom, it was truly fulfilling to see the overwhelming reception from the parents attending. 

In this post, I want to share some of the frequently asked questions during the event, provide insightful answers, and highlight how this experience encouraged parents and children alike to embark on their own decluttering journey.

Embracing the Decluttering Mindset

During the event, many parents were eager to declutter their homes but were unsure about where to start. One of the first questions that arose was, “Where can I donate my items after I declutter?” 

Donating is a wonderful way to give your belongings a second life and support those in need. Local charities, shelters, and community centers often accept donations, making it convenient for you to contribute to a cause while decluttering.

Here are a few of my favorites:

• Blue Sky collects clothing for children. Their approach is different that most other organizations as they pair you up with a child in need. They do this to ensure that the sizes you’re donating are well-suited for the child who will receive them.
• Mifan Mama This NGO provides basic services (food, healthcare, education) to orphanages across six provinces. You can help them by donating clothing (for babies, children or adults), toys and games for all ages, books (Chinese or English), diapers and baby wipes and furniture.

    Contact: Seema Ahluwalia (+86-13681872895) Email:  info@mifanmama.com 

• The Renewal Center accepts clothing donations only. The charity provides hot showers, clothing, a meal, and job training to visitors. The center is especially looking for winter clothes and business and business casual clothing and shoes for men and women. 
• Heart to Heart provides care and support to children undergoing heart surgery whose parents cannot afford to pay. They also help with hospital playroom sessions, collection, and distribution of clothing and other miscellaneous items, knitting, sewing, and participation in fund-raising projects and events.

Overcoming Resistance from Older Parents

Some parents faced a unique challenge—living with older parents who have difficulty parting with their possessions. 

Another attendee asked what seemed to be on everyone’s mind –  “I live with older parents that have a hard time letting things go, where should I start?”

In such cases, beginning with the common areas of the house is an effective approach.

By decluttering shared spaces, the impact on the entire family becomes evident, gradually changing their perception of decluttering. 

So remember, start small and focus on the areas that will make the most immediate difference.

Read this too: 3 Common Misconceptions About Home Organization

Embarking on a Decluttering Journey

For others new to the concept of decluttering, a common question was, “Where should I start?” 

Clothing is an excellent starting point. 

Sorting through your wardrobe can be a cathartic experience, allowing you to evaluate which items truly bring you joy and which ones no longer serve a purpose. 

If you prefer a structured approach, you can follow the KonMari™ method, organizing your belongings by categories such as clothing, books, papers, sentimental items and finally, miscellaneous items. 

Read more: 8 Best Organizing Tips for a Tidy Home

Encouraging Parents and Children to Declutter Together

The event served as a catalyst for both parents and children to embark on a joint decluttering adventure.

By involving children in the process, parents impart valuable lessons about organization and cultivate a sense of responsibility and empathy. 

Children’s Day Blessings was an ideal platform to nurture the seeds of compassion within the younger generation, fostering a lifelong appreciation for a clutter-free and harmonious home.

The journey to decluttering can be challenging, but with the right guidance and mindset, it becomes an empowering and transformative experience. By embracing a decluttered home, we can create a nurturing environment that enhances their daily lives.

Continue reading: How to Encourage Your Children to Help With Household Responsibilities

The Seeds of Compassion – Children’s Day Blessings event was a truly remarkable opportunity for me to share my passion for decluttering and witness the enthusiastic response from parents and children. I am incredibly grateful to The Expatriate Center  (TEC) and  TEC WǒMén for inviting me to this wonderful event.

TEC WǒMén is a supportive and empowering community for women in Shanghai, created within The Expatriate Center (TEC) by a team of dedicated women volunteers. Their mission is to uplift and promote mental wellness among women, fostering a safe and compassionate environment for all.

By addressing common FAQs such as donation options, overcoming resistance from older parents, and providing guidance for growing families, I hope to inspire and guide others on their journey towards a clutter-free home.

Let us embrace parenthood and homemaking with open hearts, fostering a space where love, compassion, and organization can thrive.

If you’re eager to dive deeper into the world of home organization and decluttering, I invite you to check out more posts on my blog. There, you’ll find a wealth of practical tips, personal anecdotes, and other ideas to help you create a harmonious living environment. 

And don’t forget to follow me on social media as well, where I regularly share updates, inspiration, and engaging content related to parenthood, home organization, and the transformative power of decluttering. 

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