It’s back-to-school time! Ready or not
Do you often find your home in a state of chaos, especially when the kids get home from school? Are mornings a mad scramble as your little ones search for their clothes and homework? If you’re nodding in agreement, you’re not alone. Many parents face this daily challenge! But fear not; I have some practical solutions to help you transform that chaos into order. Let’s dive into a few common problem areas and how to organize your kid’s daily routine effectively.
Problem #1: The Entryway
The moment your kids walk through the door, it’s as if a tornado of shoes, backpacks, and jackets has touched down. To combat this, designate a specific area near the entryway for these items. Install hooks for jackets, shelves for backpacks, and bins for shoes. This simple adjustment can make a significant difference in keeping your home tidy.
I love the idea of a corkboard with their initials and a hook below for the backpack. Use the corkboard for all the homework or papers to be signed. You could even put up each kid’s sports schedule so they can keep track of all their practices. Also, it would be good for reminders for lunch or homework. Another plan could be to make use of your attached garage or convert a coat closet into a mudroom. You may consider building a small bench with shoe baskets underneath and hooks above in a little-used corner.
Problem #2: Clothes! Clothes! Clothes!
Mornings can be hectic, and searching for the right outfit can lead to delays. Make your mornings smoother by planning and laying out outfits for the following week, on the weekend before.
Before you get started picking out their outfits, take time to edit out anything that’s too small, they don’t like to wear “its itchy Mom!”, or anything with stains or rips.
Then, organize their faves in a hanging organizer with days of the week, drawers, or labeled containers to help kids quickly find what they need. This small change can save precious time and reduce stress!
Problem #3: Yikes! Now they have Homework!
Creating a distraction-free homework station is crucial for your child’s academic success. If your kitchen table is where the homework gets done, consider using the side of your fridge as a command center for all things school-related. With magnetic and/or adhesive holders, you can easily attach pouches and mesh cups and holders to contain writing utensils, paper pads, staplers, paper clips, etc. Super handy!
Other ideas include repurposing an old art desk, using closet space in your kids’ room for a cubby homework zone, or using retro open-top school desks where school supplies can be kept inside.
If you don’t have extra space in your home {or budget} to create an “official” homework station, no problem! You can create a portable homework station for your child instead. Using a roller cart and a tri-fold presentation board placed on your table, decorated by your child, may just fit the bill. These homework stations are perfect for small space living.
Problem #4: Papers, papers, and more papers!
There are so many different types of papers that find their way home throughout the school year. It can get out of hand fast! Addressing this is a daily essential.
Assign where things belong… The way I see it, there should be three different categories. Remember to teach your child the system so they can take care of this part! THANKYOUVERYMUCH.
1) Finished or graded papers go in a bin
This does not need to be fancy! Just a landing place for papers that need to either be saved or go in a grade binder. Keep the interesting and TOSS the rest! I use a rolling cart with three baskets in my pantry. Label the chosen basket or bin for each child.
2) The Kids Have Their Own Homework Slots
Anything that needs to be finished or returned to school goes into their homework slot. This may be at their homework station!
3) Attention-Needing School Paperwork
Permission slips, notes, or announcements that I need to handle go in a wall organizer next to my desk. This is my reminder to take care of it, and there’s no clutter on my desk, either.
And for The Year End Keepers….drumroll, please
Here’s a couple ideas:
For the tech-savvy, Go Digital! Take pictures of the good stuff and keep them in a separate album on your phone.
You could use a file box for each child and use file folders and hangars for each year. If you have multiple children, I suggest choosing a different color for each child.
Another method, which I personally used, is to create a binder for each year. Use 3-inch binders and 3-hole punch and/or sleeves to collect important papers, report cards, special artwork, class pics, or awards. Then, label the side with their grade and slip their school picture in the front.
I hope you can use a few of these ideas to keep you calm and organized so you can enjoy these years along with your child!
Happy Back to School!