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Toy Rotation Made Easy: A 4-Box System + Free Tracker

Less clutter, more play. Works for Baby, 1+, 3+, 5+.

Download the Toy Rotation Tracker (PDF)
Use the 4-week planner + notes boxes to keep swaps simple.
Download →

The 4-Box System

Current Shelf
6–10 toys out. Mix build, pretend, fine-motor, movement.
Next Up
Small stash to swap in when interest dips.
Put Away
Rested toys. Out of sight = fresh again later.
Donate / Repair
Fix what you can; rehome the rest.

Set It Up in 20 Minutes

1Gather toys in one spot, remove true duplicates.
2Choose today’s 6–10 for the shelf: one build, one pretend, one fine-motor, one movement, one book/puzzle.
3Place 6–10 in Next Up; everything else in Put Away.
4Label baskets with simple icons so kids can tidy independently.
5Swap 1–3 items weekly or when interest fades.

Shelf Setup Ideas (with Play Prompts)

Rescue Route
Tape simple roads; drive & deliver animals.
Rainbow Hills
Flip arches for tunnels, bridges and ramps.
Photo Safari
Go on a “photo walk” and name colours & animals.
Little Shop
Price items, take turns as shopkeeper & customer.
Focus Station
Match, stack, count. Add a sand timer for challenge.

Make It a Habit

Swap on Sunday Child picks 1 “keeper” Use the tracker weekly

FAQs

How many toys should be out?
Start with 6–10 visible items. Rotate when interest dips.
How often should I rotate?
Weekly is great, but follow your child’s interest. Swap only when play dips.
Is this “Montessori”?
Yes—simple, accessible setups support choice, focus and independence.