The Container Store and a storage idea for kid's papers.

Get 20% off at The Container Store by using Code: WR4009. But hurry it expires SOON!
Expiration: 11/30/09

I have an idea for storing your kid's papers. You could purchase this extra large file tote box. Each child gets ONE of these. I said ONE because you are not going to keep every single paper your child writes or draws on. You are going to keep only a few precious pieces. If you keep all of them, nothing becomes special, it all becomes an overwhelming mess.

You will first fill the tote box with at least 12 hanging file folders. But you may want to insert 18 - one for every year your child is under your roof and creating.

If your child is 2 you will label a file folder "2 years old". And then you will file the special papers your child creates that whole year into that folder. I suspect your file folders will be slim at first and towards the end. Once your child enters school, label the file folders by grade or by year. This is also a GREAT place to store extra school pictures. Keep them in the envelope they came in and file them in the correct year's folder. Next year order less so you have less to store!

I have seen similar boxes on sale at Staples if you have one near you.

Another tip: If your box is getting full quickly, trim down the papers. You are keeping entirely too many. Remember this box is "extra large".