Every holiday or birthday, parents brace for the toy avalanche—a flood of stuffed animals, plastic figures, and noisy gadgets. While gifts are a kind gesture, the sheer volume can be overwhelming. Many toys hold a child’s attention for only a few days before being forgotten, adding to household clutter.
But what if you could shift the focus from stuff to experiences—without offending well-meaning relatives? Picture your child marveling at zoo animals, laughing at a theater show, or exploring a science museum. These memories last far longer than another toy. Experience gifts create real-world adventures, meaningful family time, and a tidier home.
So how to get rid of toys? You can gently guide family and friends toward gifting experiences instead of more toys. This guide will show you why experiences make better gifts, how to start the conversation, and creative ways to make experience gifts just as exciting to unwrap.
More Experiences, Less Toys
Toys bring temporary excitement, but experiences create lasting memories. While children may forget another stuffed animal or action figure, they’ll always remember special outings and adventures.
Here’s why experience gifts are a better alternative to toy overload:
- Toys lose their novelty; experiences last forever. Kids often play with new toys for only a short time before losing interest. But an exciting trip or activity stays with them.
- Experiences strengthen family bonds. A shared adventure—whether it’s a trip to the zoo, a baking class, or a special day out—builds connections and quality time.
- Less clutter means less stress. Fewer toys make it easier to keep your home organized, reducing the chaos of scattered playthings.
- Kids learn to value experiences over material things. When they receive activity-based gifts, children see joy in making memories rather than collecting stuff.
- Experiences spark creativity and learning. Unlike passive play with toys, outings and activities engage kids in hands-on discovery.
Toys come and go, but meaningful experiences shape a child’s world in ways no toy ever could. By shifting the focus, you give your child something truly valuable—time, adventure, and memories they’ll cherish for years.
Get Rid of Toys Without Cutting Off Family Gift-Giving
For many relatives, giving toys isn’t just about the item—it’s about expressing love and creating joy. Understanding their perspective makes it easier to guide them toward experience gifts without offending them.
Common concerns and how to address them:
- “But I love watching them open gifts!”
- The excitement of unwrapping can still happen. Suggest wrapping an experience gift with a small related item, like a zoo membership with a stuffed animal or a dance class with ballet slippers.
- “It doesn’t feel like a real present if it’s not wrapped.”
- Presentation matters! Encourage creative wrapping ideas: print out a colorful certificate, put tickets inside a decorative box, or create a scavenger hunt leading to the surprise.
- “I don’t know what experiences they’d enjoy.”
- Make it easy by providing specific suggestions based on your child’s interests. “She loves animals—she’d be thrilled with a zoo membership!” or “He’s really into space; a planetarium visit would be perfect.”
When relatives see that their gift can still bring joy—without adding to the toy clutter—they’re more likely to embrace the change.
How to Help Kids Get Rid of Toys Without Just Purging Toy Clutter
When it comes to decluttering toys, it’s essential to know what to do with items that are no longer in use. Here are a few options to ensure your old toys don’t just pile up in storage but are put to good use or properly disposed of:
Throw Them Away
Not all toys are worth saving. If a toy is broken beyond repair, missing parts, or has become unsafe for children to play with, it’s best to throw it away. Before tossing it in the trash, consider these steps:
- Remove batteries or electronic components to ensure they are disposed of correctly.
- If the toy is made from materials like plastic or metal, check if it can be recycled.
Recycling Toys
Some toys are recyclable, but it depends on their material.
- Plastic toys: If the plastic is clean and free of electronic parts, you can recycle it. Look for the recycling symbol on the toy, which will indicate which type of plastic it is made from.
- Wooden toys: These can often be recycled or composted if they don’t have toxic paints or finishes.
- Electronic toys: If they still work, consider donating or recycling them at an e-waste facility.
Gently Used Toys for Donation
Donating toys that are still in good condition is a fantastic way to give them a second life. Consider these options:
- Local charities: Many organizations accept gently used toys to distribute to children in need.
- Thrift stores: Check if your local second-hand shops accept donations.
- Online marketplaces: If you’re looking to pass along items for free, platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Freecycle are perfect for finding new homes for toys.
Organize an Old Toy Swap
Another way to declutter while ensuring toys are still used is by organizing a toy swap. Get together with friends, family, or neighbors, and exchange toys your children no longer play with for new ones. This helps everyone refresh their toy collections without adding to the clutter.
Repurpose or Upcycle Some Types of Toys
If you have creative kids or enjoy DIY projects, consider repurposing toys into something new. For example, old Legos can become art projects, or you can transform wooden toys into pieces of home decor. This option allows you to hold onto a cherished item while giving it a new purpose.
By thoughtfully deciding what to do with old toys, you not only make your home less cluttered but also contribute to sustainability, community support, and creativity.
Use Decluttering to Shift the Conversation Away From Kids Toys & Toward Experiences
Shifting gift-giving traditions takes time, but a thoughtful approach can help relatives embrace the idea of experience gifts.
Start the Conversation Early
- Bring it up before birthdays or holidays to set expectations.
- Frame it as a fun, intentional shift rather than a restriction.
- Example: “This year, we’re trying to focus on experiences instead of toys. We’d love for you to be part of making special memories!”
Highlight the Benefits for the Gift-Giver
- Experience gifts create lasting memories, not just clutter.
- They allow for meaningful time together—unlike toys that may be quickly forgotten.
- Example: “Instead of another toy, imagine how special it would be for her to remember her first trip to the aquarium with Grandma!”
Offer a Gift List with Experience-Based Ideas
- Many relatives want to give something meaningful—help them by providing options.
- Frame it as an exciting alternative, not a rule.
- Example: “If you’re looking for a great gift idea, he’d love a museum membership or a sports clinic!”
By guiding the conversation in a positive way, you make it easier for relatives to shift from toy-giving to experience-gifting without feeling pressured.
Experience Gift Ideas That Relatives Can Give Instead of Buying Toys
Experience gifts don’t have to be complicated or expensive. With a little creativity, you can help relatives choose memorable gifts that don’t add to the clutter. Here are some thoughtful and fun ideas:
Memberships & Subscriptions
- Zoo, aquarium, or children’s museum memberships
- STEM, art, or activity kits (e.g., KiwiCo, Little Passports)
- Online learning classes (piano, art, coding for kids)
- Subscription boxes (science, books, crafts)
Pro tip: Pair an experience gift with a small tangible item, like a plush toy or art supplies, to make the unwrapping moment extra special.
Fun Outings & Tickets
- Movie or theater tickets
- Amusement park or trampoline park passes
- Mini-golf, bowling, or arcade gift cards
- Local farm, petting zoo, or nature park visit
Pro tip: Pair it with a themed gift, like popcorn buckets or glow sticks, to make the experience feel even more exciting.
Classes & Lessons
- Dance, gymnastics, or martial arts lessons
- Cooking classes for kids
- Music or singing lessons
- Sports clinics (soccer, basketball, swimming)
Pro tip: Pair it with a small gift like a chef’s hat, sports jersey, or instrument to spark excitement for the upcoming class.
Travel & Adventure Gifts
- Weekend getaway with grandparents
- Camping trip gear + a planned weekend in nature
- Horseback riding, zip-lining, or rock climbing experiences
Pro tip: Complement the experience with a travel journal, flashlight, or stuffed animal to get them excited about the adventure ahead.
Special One-on-One Time
- A “day out” with Grandma & Grandpa (pick an activity together!)
- Breakfast date or ice cream outing
- DIY coupon book for special activities (baking day, fort building, movie night)
Pro tip: Add a personal touch by wrapping the experience with a photo album or a handmade coupon book, so they can start planning their day.
These experience-based gifts offer endless possibilities and can create cherished memories for both kids and the relatives giving the gift.
Handling Pushback & Making Compromises to Declutter Toys
Even with the best intentions, you may face resistance from relatives who are attached to the idea of giving toys. Here’s how to handle pushback and create win-win solutions:
When Relatives Still Want to Give Toys
- Suggest a one-toy limit. This keeps the gift-giving meaningful without overwhelming your home.
- Request open-ended toys (e.g., LEGOs, art supplies, puzzles) that encourage creativity and can be used over and over.
- Propose a gift fund for a larger experience, such as saving for a big trip or a future adventure. This allows relatives to contribute meaningfully while helping create lasting memories.
Dealing with Resistance or Hurt Feelings
- Acknowledge their generosity: “We really appreciate how much you love giving gifts. It means a lot to us.”
- Reassure them that experiences bring just as much joy as toys—sometimes even more. It’s about the moments shared, not the material things.
- If they’re still unsure, start small. Ask for one experience gift and show them how your child cherishes it. This can make it easier for them to understand the joy of giving experiences over time.
Remember, it’s all about shifting the mindset and finding solutions that work for everyone. Your relatives’ love and thoughtfulness don’t have to be sacrificed—they just get to be a little more memorable and meaningful.
How to Get Rid of Toys
Encouraging relatives to give experiences instead of toys can be a win-win for both parents and kids. It reduces clutter, fosters meaningful memories, and allows children to explore and learn in ways that toys often can’t. By starting the conversation early, offering creative ideas, and handling any resistance with understanding, you can shift the focus from material gifts to lasting moments.
Remember, it’s not about rejecting toys altogether but about curating gifts that add value to your family’s life and create unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s a trip, a class, or simply spending time together, these gifts will be cherished far beyond the holiday season. So, next time a special occasion comes around, suggest an experience gift—and watch the joy unfold!
FAQs
1. How do I decide which toys to keep and which to get rid of?
When it comes to toys, it’s important to evaluate whichtoys to keep based on what your kids love. Kids don’t need a lot of toys to stay entertained, and sometimes kids aren’t interested in the toys to play with after a few uses. It’s often helpful to switch out the toys by rotating them, so your kids have fresh options without being overwhelmed by the amount of toys in your home. You can also put the toys that aren’t frequently used into boxes for later.
2. What do I do with unused toys and older toys my kids don’t play with anymore?
If you’re wondering how to handle the unused toys, consider donating them. Donating used toys is a great way to give gently-used toys a second life. Many organizations will gladly accept toys to give away that are still in good condition. Alternatively, if you have a pile of toys your kids outgrown toys, donating them is a great option. You could also offer them to a friend or family member whose kids get older or kids weren’t younger.
3. What should I do with broken toys?
Broken toys or toys that are beyond repair should be thrown away, as they no longer serve their purpose. Before throwing them away, make sure to recycle parts if possible, especially if it’s made of plastic or metal. It’s important not to throw any toys away that could still be reused, so always check if the toy can be fixed or repurposed first.
4. How can I encourage my kids to part with their favorite toys?
It can be tough for kids to let go offavorite toys. Kids feel attached to toys that remind them of special memories or their childhood. A great way to approach this is by talking to them about the importance of sharing or donating to others who might need toys more. Teach your kids that giving toys to put away for other children is a generous way to show kindness.
5. How can I limit the number of toys in my house without upsetting relatives?
If you want to get rid of some toys, try starting the conversation early with family and friends before a birthday or holiday. Let them know that you prefer toys in general to be given as experiences instead. This way, you can prevent the toys in your home from piling up, and still keep the toys every child enjoys.
6. What’s the best way to organize toys everywhere?
If you’ve already accumulatedtons of toys, it’s time to declutter and make space. You can put the toys into bins or organize them by type to avoid being overwhelmed by the pile of toys. For toys that are still used, make sure they are accessible. For those that kids lose interest in, try rotating them. This reduces the excess toys that take up space and keeps things manageable.
7. How often should I switch out the toys to keep things fresh for my kids?
Rotating toys every few weeks is a good way to maintain interest without accumulating a lot of toys. Kids know that some toys are stored away and may enjoy rediscovering them later. This keeps their playtime exciting and avoids the chaos of having too many toys to play with at once.
8. Can I get rid of even baby toys once my child outgrows them?
Yes! Once your childoutgrown toys, consider donating or passing them down to someone who could use them. Baby toys tend to take up a lot of space, and as kids get older, they won’t need them anymore. Decide which toys are worth keeping, and get rid of some toys that aren’t serving a purpose.
9. Should I keep toys to put away if my child gets tired of them?
If you want to get rid of some toys that your child is no longer interested in, try rotating toys instead. This allows your child to stay engaged with their favorite toys while giving others a break. Keep toys in boxes or tucked away to make room for new interests.
10. Is there a way to get my kids to focus on fewer toys at a time?
A great strategy is to get rid of a lot of toys and leave only a few available at once. This will help kids focus on what they have and avoid feeling overwhelmed. You can also put away toys that don’t get used often and switch out the toys regularly. This creates a less cluttered environment where kids aren’t distracted by too many choices at once.
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