For Christmas my daughter wanted a horse.  Not a real one, but one of those FurReal ”Butterscotch” robotic ponies seen at Costco and Target over the holidays.  Besides the fact that I could envision a life-like pony scaring me silly at unexpected times–like during the night when checking on my sleeping child with its motion activated sounds or movement–a pony of that size would have taken up too much space. 

As it is, I already have to make room in our shrinking house for two other large stuffed horse toys–thank goodness there haven’t yet been any requests for a Pleo Dinosaur.

Until children came along, I didn’t realize that houses really have the power to shrink in size!  As children and toys accumulate, I’ve discovered that maximizing space is a necessary evil.  Good organization is key.  Regular de-cluttering is essential–although that’s sometimes really, really difficult, especially when it means throwing out or donating precious stuff.

When a bigger house or new addition isn’t practical, possible, or even a smart idea, there are simple ways to make your space work for your family.  Here are some ideas to get you started.         

1.  Hit the closet.  Add shelving, closet storage organizers, or other neat organization accessories, like a Prince Lionheart Closet Cubby.

2.  De-clutter.  Do you need those jeans you haven’t worn for three years?  Do you need to keep that board game which is missing a bunch of pieces? 

3.  Go for storage.  Opt for furniture or toys with built in storage or shelves.  For example, pick ”trundle” drawer storage, such as KidKraft’s train table trundle drawers, or under-bed storage baskets.

4.  Tune-in.  Check out popular television networks or websites, like HGTV, for small space living ideas.

With some creativity and discipline, it is possible to find comfort in a shrinking home!