After the lazy days of summer, getting into the groove for back to school can be tough! Here are 10 tips to help you get your home, yourself and your kids organized for Back to School.
- Designate a cupboard for easy lunch organization
- Store all the plastic containers, lunch boxes, bottles and napkins here
- Label everything for easy locating
- Quick snacks can also go here
- Have sandwich and lunch basics ready
- Deli meats
- Cheeses
- Spreads
- Pre-portioned fruits and veggies
- Start a stash of common project/homework supplies
- Poster board
- Pens, pencils, markers
- Index cards
- Glue sticks
- Set up a central command center. Include:
- A dry erase board for to-do lists
- Basket for permission slips, daycare forms
- Car keys and wallets for easy access
- Designate a homework and crafts area
- It can be as simple as a shelf with chairs, a spot in the office or a desk in their bedroom
- Make sure this space is free of television and media equipment so kids can focus and be productive
- Organize it so that craft supplies and other belongings each have their own space
- Post the daily schedule or an illustrated checklist if your kids are younger. Be sure to include:
- Morning routines
- Bedtime schedules
- Chores
- After school activities and sports
- Organize the front or back entry. Designate and label a spot for each child (or adult)
- Designate a cupboard or basket for backpacks
- Label a hook for each kids jackets and hats
- Shoe cubbies can labeled as well
- Make dinners easy
- Post a weeknight dinner schedule. Include family nights or dinners out. Make sure to leave a spot for suggestions
- Post the grocery list nearby
- Cook more than you need…it can be frozen for another day or used for lunches
- Lay out the kids clothes (and yours) for the week to minimize morning chaos
- The kids can make their own outfit tags to keep them in order
- You can include everything from shirts, pants to underwear and socks
- Check the weather forecast in advance so clothing is appropriate
- Bathroom organization will save time and decrease chaos
- Place toiletries for each younger child in marked baskets or colored plastic bins
- Your teens can use space on higher shelves or other areas for their styling aids and toiletries
- Be sure to utilize behind the door storage as well
