Hello Happy Place Spaces Community,
As the summer winds down and the school year approaches, many of us feel a mix of excitement and anticipation. It’s a time of new beginnings and fresh starts, not just for our children but for the whole family. Whether you’re a seasoned pro at this or navigating the back-to-school chaos for the first time, I’m here to share some tried-and-true tips to help you get organized and ease your family into the new school year smoothly.
As both a mom and a professional organizer, I’ve learned that the key to a stress-free school year is preparation. Here’s how you can get started:
1. Clear Out Last Year’s Clutter
The first step to a fresh start is to clear out the remnants of last year. Take some time to go through old school papers, outgrown clothing, and forgotten lunch boxes. Donate or discard what you no longer need.
Designate a Space for School Gear: Create a specific spot for backpacks and school supplies. I love using hooks for each family member near the front door—it’s a simple but effective way to keep things tidy and accessible. You might also consider adding a bin for hats, gloves, and other small items. Having a designated spot for the lunch kit is another game-changer, especially on busy mornings when time is of the essence.
2. Plan Ahead with a Family Command Center
Planning is essential for a smooth school year. Set up a family command center in a central location in your home. This should include a family calendar, an important document drop-off spot, and a notes section for reminders and messages.
Check out this cool digital calendar: It’s a fantastic tool for keeping everyone on the same page, and it syncs across devices so you’ll never miss an important date. [AMAZON AFFILIATE LINK].
*Amazon Affiliate Link
3. Stock Up on Essentials & Organize the Pantry
Getting the pantry organized for school lunch prep and after-school snacks can save you a lot of hassle. I recommend creating zones for different types of foods—snacks, lunch items, breakfast essentials, etc. This way, everything is easy to find when you’re in a rush.
Lunch Guide: Having a lunch guide can be a lifesaver when you’re trying to ensure your kids get a well-balanced meal. Here’s one I love: [LINK TO THE FREE PRINTABLE GUIDE].
4. Establish a Routine
Routine is the backbone of a well-organized household, especially during the school year. Take time to review the morning and after-school routines with your family so everyone is on the same page.
Morning Routine: Discuss wake-up times, bathroom schedules, chores, and any other expectations for the morning. For younger kids, a visual step-by-step guide can be incredibly helpful. It’s a fun way to keep them engaged and on track.
After-School Routine: Here’s a peek into what works for my family:
- Pack lunches the night before: This reduces morning stress and ensures that everyone is prepared.
- Pick out outfits the night before: It’s a small thing, but it makes a big difference in how smoothly the morning goes.
- Make it a routine chore: When the kids get home, they know to hang their backpacks, empty their lunch kits, and bring out any forms or homework before heading off to play. It’s a routine that not only keeps things organized but also teaches them responsibility.
Final Thoughts
Transitioning back to school doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little preparation and some thoughtful organization, you can set the stage for a successful and stress-free year ahead. Remember, whether you’re tackling clutter, setting up a command center, or creating a family routine, it’s all about finding what works best for you and your family. And if you ever need a helping hand, you know where to find me!
Wishing you all a fantastic start to the school year!
Happy New *School* Year,
Veronica Stone
Founder of Happy Place Spaces
Mom, Professional Organizer, and Your Partner in Creating Calm Amidst the Chaos
