Fall is a time of color, crunchy leaves, chilly winds, and hot cocoa. It also means that rain, cold and eventually winter will be here.  To prepare, it's always a good idea to clean out the rain gutters, get those dead limbs trimmed off the trees, and store any lawn furniture that is not sheltered. All that cold and rain will mean more time spent indoors, too, so it's wise to revisit some Spring cleaning and get rid of any clutter left behind by Summer.

Try this:  put a box in a central location in the house and label it with something like "I don't need this, but someone does" or "for someone who can use it."  When folding the laundry, remember to be on the lookout for clothing that has been outgrown and put it in the box.  When it comes time to tidy up before bed, tell children that they can put things that they don't use or play with any more into the box.  Children will be more willing to de-clutter when they understand that the things aren't being thrown away, but going to someone that will be able to appreciate the item as they once did. They will also learn by example when they see other family members contributing to the box, so don't forget to go through the big-peoples' closets, too.