Back to School time brings a mix of emotions for everyone, it’s fun, exciting, nerve wracking and… chaotic! Getting organized ahead of time can make all the difference in the world for getting out of the door on time in the mornings, and making sure everyone has what they need when it comes to homework in the afternoons. Check out these tips for starting the new school year off in an orderly fashion.
Plan outfits in advance: This is one tip that makes every list you’ll see on the interwebs, because it’s a good one. Whether you have your kiddos pick outfits each night before the go to bed or on Sunday night for the entire week, this tip is a time saver.
Set up family inboxes: We have these in our kitchen, one for each child and one for family. We use it to keep school schedules, teacher information, papers that need to be signed, etc… Make sure to go through these papers periodically throughout the school year so they don’t accumulate and overflow.
Create a homework station: Have a designated spot for homework and have it stocked with all of your homework essentials.
On the go homework kit: If your family does extracurricular activities, it’s possible you’re spending a lot of time picking up, dropping off and/or waiting for activities to end. Keep a pencil pouch or box in your glove compartment with homework essentials. Pencils, erasers, etc…
Make your own lunch station: Portion out lunch items ahead of time and set up in baskets or bins for easy grab and go when kids are making their lunches. (also great for grab and go snacks after school)
Schedule a weekly “Clean Sweep:” Have everyone spend a pre-arranged 20 minutes each week cleaning, picking up and organizing their things for the week. Do this activity together as a family to help cut down on complaining.
What tips work for your family when it comes to keeping the back to school chaos to a minimum?
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