Moms - I need your help!

My mom and I were recently dining out and we were seated close to a family with three, young children. They ranged in age from probably 2-6 and were three of the most well-behaved children we have seen. They all played at the table nicely, talked with each other quietly, and ate their lunch pleasantly. We were in awe at how their parents managed to have such a peaceful meal out with the whole family.

We discovered the secret: their parents had brought along an "entertainment bag" for the children to keep them busy and interested. My mom and I started discussing how great of an idea this was and brainstormed ideas for the essential components of the perfect "entertainment bag" to take along when dining out with the family.

We decided that a bag for each child would probably work best. We think it would work well to keep the bag in your car and only use the items when you are dining out - this will keep them exciting for the kids. Some of the ideas we came up with to include in the bag are:

* Crayola Twistables Crayons - no breaking, no mess, and always stay sharp
* Coloring books or drawing pads
* A "special" bib that is only used when dining out - emphasize how "special" the bib is to encourage the child to keep it clean
* Fun utensils that are only used when dining out
* Table Topics Conversation Cards - keep the conversation interesting and fun for the kids

The components of the "entertainment bag" would vary depending upon the age of the child, of course.

So moms, what are some of your ideas for creating the "entertainment bag"? Post a comment below to share your thoughts. I will then organize all of your ideas and compile the Entertainment Bag for Dining Out Essentials! Thanks for your ideas!

Happy Brainstorming!

Organizing Statistic of the Day!

The National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO) has compiled a great list of organizing statistics which show the benefits of getting organized. I plan to start sharing these stats on a regular basis. Here is the first one:

"The National Soap and Detergent Association says 80 percent of household clutter is the result of disorganization, not lack of space."

The best way to gain space in your home or office is to get rid of unnecessary clutter! Ask yourself these three questions to help with the process:

1) Do you use it?
If you have not used the item in the last year, then you do not use it. A year is a good time frame when considering if you use something as it covers each season.

2) Do you need it?
For example, the warranty information for your refrigerator - you may not have used it in the last year, but as long as it is still valid, you need it. This is something you would need to keep as long as it is valid. On the other hand, the warranty information for your old refrigerator, which you no longer have, is not needed.

3) Do you love it?
You may have a few items that you do not use and you do not need, but you may absolutely love them. For example, family heirlooms or childhood photographs. Items that you love, you should keep.

If the answer to all three of these questions is "no" - get rid of it!

Happy De-cluttering!

In Style Organization Launches New Website

I am very excited to announce that In Style Organization has launched a new website! Check it out: In Style Organization