How to Get Both Your Home & Your Family Back-to-School Ready
Most of you probably don't know that I was a fourth-grade teacher for most of my adult life (so far), and while I now have grown children and do not feel the back to school stress that I often did, I can relate! Getting back into a routine with your children and having your home work hard to make life easier is paramount for a successful start to a new school year. Start today with a bedtime routine that includes a period of "winding down" without screen time - time to start dimming the lights, maybe reading a book or listening to calming music. Think about what time lights should go out, and when morning lights should start coming back on. Gradually adjusting those times will better prepare your kiddos for the early school bell.
Tip #1: Organize an Efficient & Optimal Entryway
Let's talk about your home's entryway or drop zone and how it can empower you. You may have forgotten how many things go in and out your doors during the school season. Where do all of those backpacks, shoes, coats, sports equipment, lunch boxes, and important notes go? There are 4 must-haves to create a highly-functional area here to organize the chaos. First, have a basket/bin for each child (preferably labeled with a name or different colored ribbon) to store shoes, water bottles, and such. Second, install a hook for each person to hang a backpack and coat right above their basket. Third, it's great when these baskets can fit under a bench, so that anyone can sit down when needed. A bonus is that the bench hides the somewhat "ugly" items that can accumulate in the baskets. And fourth, a tray or bulletin board is handy for the announcements and notes that need to be signed/returned. If you can train your kids to take their homework out of their backpacks and place it directly above their baskets on the bench, you'll have more success with them actually doing the work - out of sight is usually out of mind!
Tip #2: Set Up a Dedicated Space for Self-Service
Now, let's talk about the morning routine in the kitchen. Planning for this in advance will produce more smiles and cheer during the morning rush. If you want your kids to help with their breakfast and lunch, choose areas in your pantry and refrigerator that are designated for this. One shelf (or section) could contain all of the items they will need. Make sure to have it at the level they can reach to make it easy. I like when snacks in the pantry are in separate clear containers or small baskets- think about mixing up the types of easy to grab foods - fruit, crunchy things such as chips, treats, etc. Some parents even help children pack lunches the night before and just store them in the refrigerator until the next morning.
Tip #3: Find & Install a Family Information Center
Having a spot for a family calendar is a fabulous idea. I'd suggest having two months on view at a time. You can record all sports and school events, doctor’s appointments, and even notes about care for the pets. An additional board could be used for family chores (possibly with reward choices too). This spot may be the place that you hang the bulletin board (or magnetic board) that I mentioned for the entryway - for all of those important papers like field trip permission slips. Everyone lives differently, and you may have more space near the kitchen for these organizational tools.
Did you know that teachers spend about half of the first day of school setting up their students for organizational success while explaining routines and procedures? Did you know that they continually reinforce those routines and procedures day after day? Taking the time to strategize, plan, and teach children how to be organized and efficient is a life-long skill that will pay off for the rest of their lives, all while giving you some sanity, ease you into the daily life during the school year, and bring peace of mind and harmony to your family. Good luck with it all!
If you're ready for a home that feels effortless and supports your busy life this school year, I would be honored to help. Reach out and let's chat!
Until next time,
Shana
