We have tried to make it a habit to get rid of things when we get new things. The last thing we need is more stuff. So, on birthdays or at Christmas especially we try and pick out an equivalent amount of toys to gift to a person or organization that we received on that particular occasion. Abby just had her birthday, so she had some choices to make. This teaches generosity and teaches them to not hold on too closely to things, which are temporary. It also helps to keep your house organized and helps them prioritize what they really play with vs. what is just taking up space.
YES. I love this idea and we are starting to institute it on a small scale. At the beginning of last Christmas season, I wrote a post about our stuff situation and wondered how, if at all, it contributes to our happiness.
http://gratefullygrowingingrace.blogspot.com/2011/12/stuff-situation-at-our-house.html
That is a wonderful idea.
I will have to use that when my little bun comes out of the oven. 