What to Do With All Your Kids’ Artwork (Without the Guilt)

November 12, 2026

Every parent knows the backpack avalanche: drawings, paintings, glitter, macaroni. You can’t keep everything, but throwing it away feels terrible. Here’s a simple system that keeps the memories and clears the counter.

1. Give it a moment on display

Most art just wants to be seen. Choose one spot (the fridge, a corkboard, a string with clips) and rotate. New piece in, oldest piece out. Your child sees their work celebrated, and nothing piles up.

2. Photograph everything

A quick photo keeps the memory without the paper. Shoot flat, in good light, from straight above. Add the date and your child’s age so you’ll know later when it was made.

3. Let your child choose the keepers

Every month or so, sit down together and pick the favorites. Children are often less attached than we think, and choosing gives them a say. Keep the chosen ones in one box per child, per year.

4. Send it to someone who will treasure it

Grandparents, aunts and godparents love getting kids’ art. A drawing that would end up in your recycling bin can become the highlight of Grandma’s week. Better still, let grandparents ask for a drawing. The child then makes something specially for them.

5. Turn the best into something lasting

At the end of the school year, gather the favorite photos into a small printed book or a calendar. It’s a perfect gift for grandparents, and much easier to keep than a box of paper.

6. Keep the stories, not just the pictures

Ask your child, “Tell me about this one.” Write down or record what they say. Years later, their words (“It’s a dragon who is scared of the dark”) are often more precious than the drawing itself.

7. Let go, kindly

Once a piece is photographed, displayed or shared, it’s done its job. It’s okay to recycle it, quietly, and without guilt.

A simple routine

• Daily: new art goes on the fridge.
• Weekly: photograph what’s coming down; share a favorite with the grandparents.
• Monthly: your child picks keepers for their box.
• Yearly: make a book or calendar of the best.