'Twas the day after Christmas - now what to do with all these toys?

This is my first proper year at this so it's all new for me, but after Santa visited and all the aunties and grandparents have given presents to Arthur (17months), I was left with the issue of what to do with all these toys!

I could buy more storage. Indeed I found plenty of ideas for toy storage on Pinterest. But seeing as we don't have more space that wasn't the best option. I like Arthur to be able to get (and put away) his own toys, so the space needs to be low. I have always fancied the idea of rotating the toys and now we have enough to make this possible. In addition to this, I don't want too much to put away each day, and I like to be organised and know where things are.

So rotation won.

I spent Christmas evening busily tidying away toys and setting out the new ones on the shelves. I had a little move around, got out some new puzzles from the "I'll grow into it box" put all the books (except library books) onto the bookshelf. Fabulous! I feel in control again! l

I took photos while it was tidy - though this does happen, to a greater or lesser extent, at the end of each day. Incidentally, the little cooker in the photo was made for me by my Granddad about 40 years ago, and has just emerged from my Mum's loft!

It's working so far, though Arthur did discover the box that I hid all the the toys in that are not currently out to play. I told him they were having a rest and put them back again and he seemed to accept that (for now at least). It got me thinking though, however to you deal with this when you have more than one child, all of whom have several Christmases under their belt?

Maybe you clear out in advance to create space? Perhaps you involve the kids in deciding what goes? Do you regift? Pack them away for the next Nearly New Sale? Build an extension?

We'd love to hear your hints tips and ideas. Please share by commenting below.