Creative Storage Solutions

Real Simple magazine's column, "New Uses for Old Things" inspired me to take a fresh look at my Sunday school room and make some changes.

It started with a cloth over-the-door shoe holder with 24 pockets. I already had pictures of the kids in my class, so I printed copies of them and cut the photos into small head shots. Then I stapled each picture to the front of an individual pocket, leaving blank pockets between the ones for students. I was careful to include all the kids that attend--regularly or sporadically. Next, I filled each pocket with a set of 24 crayons, a glue stick, a pencil, a pair of scissors, and a few blank note cards. I used the extra pockets for additional note cards, extra glue sticks, pencils, and so on.

The kids LOVE the individual pockets with their own set of supplies. I love to see them taking better care of the crayons and fighting less over the scissors! I think they also feel a sense of belonging by having their own little space in our Sunday school room.

What have you done to create space in your room? How do you help kids take responsibility over supplies? Please share your solutions!