The key here is empowerment, and a systemized approach provides this. For example, shelving books by the color of their covers helps kids find their favorite story themselves, while storing toys low to the ground or art materials in clear jars allows them to locate (and return) items easily. Folding their clothes and stacking them like file folders in the drawer permit preschoolers to dress themselves without tearing up the dresser’s contents to find a Superman cape. Developmental psychologists point to established links between independent, self-sufficient children and positive self-esteem. By giving them the tools to be self-reliant—to clean their own rooms—parents help them learn responsibility, and save their own sanity. And, that’s not the only benefit. As Sophie Donelson, editor in chief of House Beautiful (above), says: “It made me a better mother.”