The back to school season can be exciting and overwhelming. There are new schedules to manage, supplies to purchase and sometimes new schools to navigate. As parents we want to set up our kids for success and that begins at home.
Figuring out what works for your family takes time plus some trial and error. Creating spaces and routines at the start will only help you build habits that serve your family and get school days started well. Incorporate these zones + tricks to help your day run a little more smoothly.
Hooks on their level
Backpacks + coats can live here at the end of the day.
Have your kids prep their bags the night before.
Command Center
In a central location like the kitchen or mudroom, install a calendar plus bulletin board for fliers, reminders, extracurricular information, invites, and reference items. Creating a landing spot for these items minimizes the need to always check your phone or computer for info.
Incorporate a folder or wall file for each child or school to keep items separate.
Lunch Zone
Build their independence with a lunch packing zone on their level - either a cabinet or drawers with lunchbox, bento boxes/bags, thermos’, cutlery, napkins, water bottles.
Keep a basket or a few of snacks or grab and go items that can be included.
Backstock
Designate a drawer or bin with backstock school supplies to pull from throughout the year with pencils, pens, highlighters, markers, extra notebooks, paper, etc.
HOMEWORK
Determine where homework will be completed and keep organized supplies on hand - either in a drawer nearby or in a divided lazy susan. Include pencils, sharpeners, erasers, highlighters, colored pencils, and glue sticks.
Checklists
Have the kids create their own checklists to hang in their room, next to their backpack or by the door to remind them of prep needed in the evenings and mornings. Sometimes when we are tired, it’s helpful to have visual reminders. Use pictures with younger children.
Paper Keepsake Box
Art is usually prolific in the younger years, or we just want to remember their interests at a particular age (lots of unicorns or Spiderman drawings!). Create a keepsake box for each child with folders for each school year. As art, report cards, school photos, or awards come home, add them to your child’s keepsake box. Learn how to make your own here.
When you have a home and routine that match your family’s current season, your day runs more smoothly. Your future self will thank you for setting these up now.