Spring Swap n' Switch

Feeling the need to tunnel out from winter? Follow that urge because it's a great idea to clear your home of what you don't need. I know that spring cleaning can be a daunting task... but if you turn it into an event for family and friends it can turn that "Ugh!" into a smile on your mug! (Bonus-- You'll be making room for new possibilities!)

First things first, arm each family member with a bag and then send them on the mission to collect items that are outgrown, not played with or unnecessary. You may wish to take a peek into each bag to make sure that Grandma's tea pot, your child's retainer or the remote control didn't make the cut! Similarly, if you've collected an item that makes your child protest, ask him/her to make a case for keeping it. If they can sway you then it's a keeper. (Bonus-- communication skills are bolstered!)

Next, encourage your kids to think like a shopkeeper. Ask questions like: What makes the stores they like to go to enticing? What makes a shop stand out from the rest? How does a shop attract attention? (Bonus-- entrepreneurial skills are fostered!)

Have your kids make signs highlighting the treasures to be swapped, switched or sold. Encourage them to be clever and descriptive so as to persuade a customer. Words like "Gently used baseball cards- still a home run!" or "Outgrown but still In Fashion!" (Bonus-- consumer savviness is buoyed!)

Let the local extended family and friends know what you're up to and invite them to participate with you in a combined event together. Set a date, post signs and set up the yard for you first annual""Spring Swap n' Switch!"

It's fun to present your child with the opportunity to swap n' switch one of their collected items for another's. (Bonus-- reduce, reuse, recycle in action!)

At the end of the event, gather unclaimed inventory and drop it off at a charity of your family's choice. (Bonus-- cultivating a charitable nature!)

Rate This Article

Click Star to Rate...

Print