We are heading towards the end of the year at a rapid rate. And in South Africa, that means the end of the school year too! My children are grown up, but I remember the end of a school year clearly. Along with all the activities and parties, gifts and farewells, came the school books, projects, stationery and any artwork that had not already been sent home. It was all dumped in a corner of my daughters’ bedrooms as the excitement of the holidays took over.

But before they could settle in to the holidays, we gathered all the artwork and pottery, projects and work done during the year, and spent a few hours going through it together. They chose the artwork they wanted to keep, and we then donated, recycled and tossed the rest! A few pieces were framed for our home and grandparents! I also took some photos.

Children’s artwork can accumulate very quickly. Here are 4 tips to keep it all under control:

• You should be putting their names and dates on the artwork as it comes in during the year.
• Have a space to display or store all current work, and then another to pack items away.
• At the end of each year (NOW), go through all artwork with the child concerned and decide what to keep and what to let go.
• Choose pieces to frame for your home, for grandparents and family. Choose some to store, some to be used as wrapping paper or cards, and then let the rest go. If you like, you could take photos of some of the artwork for a memory box before you let it go.
• DO NOT do this without involving your children. It is so important that they are part of the process and are involved in the decisions. It might take longer but it is worth it in the years ahead!

Happy holidays!