How to Live Simply with Two Young Kids
Life with young children can feel chaotic; endless toys, overflowing laundry, and a never-ending to-do list. But living simply doesn’t mean having an empty house or a rigid routine. It means creating a home and lifestyle that brings more peace, less stress, and more time for what truly matters. Here’s how to embrace simplicity with two little ones in tow.
1. Declutter (and Keep It That Way)
Kids accumulate stuff—toys, clothes, art projects, and random trinkets. Simplifying means keeping only what is useful or meaningful.
Rotate toys so they don’t get overwhelmed with choices.
Keep clothing minimal—a few well-loved outfits are easier to manage than overflowing drawers.
Create a donation habit—set a box for items your kids no longer use and involve them in giving away things to others.
Less clutter means less cleaning, less stress, and more space for creativity.
2. Focus on Fewer, Better Toys
Instead of buying the latest trendy toy, stick to open-ended options that grow with your kids:
Blocks and LEGOs
Art supplies
Play kitchen or dolls
Nature items (rocks, sticks, pinecones for creative play)
When kids have fewer but better-quality toys, they engage more deeply and play more creatively.
3. Simplify Routines
Having young kids means unpredictability, but simple routines can create a sense of stability.
Keep morning and bedtime routines predictable (even if they’re simple).
Meal plan loosely so you’re not scrambling for dinner every night.
Build in rest time—even if they don’t nap, quiet time helps everyone reset.
Simple rhythms bring more peace to the day without feeling like a strict schedule.
4. Prioritize Experiences Over Things
Kids don’t need fancy gadgets—they need connection, adventure, and play.
Spend more time outside (nature is the best playground).
Make everyday moments special—picnics in the yard, baking together, dance parties in the living room.
Say “no” to excess activities—overscheduling leads to stress, while unstructured play fuels creativity.
Memories matter more than possessions.
5. Simplify Meals
Feeding kids doesn’t have to be complicated. Stick to simple, nourishing meals.
Rotate a handful of easy breakfasts, lunches, and dinners.
Serve deconstructed meals (kids love picking and choosing from a simple plate of fruits, veggies, cheese, and bread).
Let go of perfection—sometimes, toast and fruit is enough!
Less mealtime stress makes for happier family moments.
6. Reduce Digital Distractions
Technology has its place, but too much screen time (for kids and parents) can clutter the mind.
Keep phones away during meals and family time.
Create device-free zones to encourage play and conversation.
Choose quality over quantity with kids’ screen time—less entertainment, more educational or creative content.
Less screen time means more presence and connection.
7. Embrace a Slower Pace
Life with young kids is busy, but slowing down where you can makes a huge difference.
Say no to unnecessary commitments.
Allow for slow mornings or lazy afternoons.
Notice the small joys—watching a bird, feeling the sun, or listening to your child’s stories.
A slower pace creates space for more meaningful moments.
8. Let Go of Perfection
A simple life isn’t about having a perfectly organized home or a flawless routine. It’s about choosing what matters and letting go of the rest.
It’s okay if the laundry isn’t folded.
It’s okay if dinner is leftovers.
It’s okay if today was messy—tomorrow is a new day.
Final Thoughts
Living simply with kids isn’t about having less. It’s about making room for more of what truly matters: time together, peace, and joy in the little things. Start small, embrace imperfection, and enjoy the beauty of a simpler, slower life with your little ones.
