As summer winds down and the days of poolside fun, outdoor picnics, and playdates come to an end, the start of the school year brings a welcome return to routine. While the new school year can be a relief for parents, it also means juggling school pick-ups, homework, and the need for fresh school supplies. From first-day outfits to backpacks and lunch boxes, back-to-school shopping can be a whirlwind.
To help you get organized for the upcoming school year, here are some simple and effective back-to-school organization hacks. Tackle closet and pantry clutter, invest in the best organizational tools (think custom labels, rotating caddies for art supplies, and weekly planners), and streamline your family's routine. Whether you're always on the go or just need a little help getting started, these tips will set you up for success. We've included advice for children of all ages—from elementary school to college students—and plenty of tips for parents too!
1. Organize Your Entryway
- Hooks and Bins: Install hooks at varying heights for easy access to jackets, backpacks, and purses. Decorative bins can be labeled for different items like hats, gloves, and scarves, ensuring everything has a place.
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Shoe Storage: Consider a shoe rack or cubby system to keep shoes organized and off the floor.
2. Stock Up on School Supplies
- Rotating Caddy: Use a lazy Susan or a rotating desk organizer to keep supplies like markers, scissors, and glue sticks within reach and organized.
- Supply Bins: Clear bins labeled by category (e.g., art supplies, writing tools, etc.) can help keep everything in its place.
3. Create a Family Command Center
- Wall Calendar: An acrylic wall calendar is stylish and functional for tracking family activities.
- Mail Organizer: Use a wall-mounted folio to sort incoming and outgoing mail, permission slips, and school forms.
- Key Hooks: Designate a spot for keys and lanyards to avoid morning scrambles.
4. Use a Weekly Planner
- Family Planners: Matching planners for you and your teen can help coordinate schedules. Encourage them to review and plan their week every Sunday night.
- Planner Accessories: Use stickers or highlighters to mark important dates and tasks.
5. Capture First-Day Photo Ops
- Chalkboard Signs: Create personalized signs for each child with details like their grade, teacher's name, and favorite activities.
- Photo Albums: Start a photo album dedicated to first-day-of-school pictures to create a cherished keepsake.
6. Organize Your Desk
- Desk Organizers: Use tiered trays, file organizers, and pen holders to keep your workspace tidy.
- Cable Management: Use cable clips or sleeves to manage charging cords and computer cables.
7. Designate a Homework Station
- Study Zone: Set up a quiet, well-lit area with necessary supplies and minimal distractions.
- Inspiration Board: Add a bulletin board with motivational quotes and school schedules.
8. Label Everything
- Personalized Labels: Invest in a label maker or order custom labels with your child’s name to avoid mix-ups.
- Color Coding: Use different colors for each child to make identifying belongings easier.
9. Organize the Closet
- Seasonal Storage: Rotate clothes seasonally and store out-of-season items in labeled bins.
- Outfit Planning: Use a hanging organizer to plan outfits for the week ahead.
10. Invest in a New Backpack
- Durability: Choose backpacks with durable materials and multiple compartments for organization.
- Personalization: Let kids add keychains or patches to make their backpacks unique.
11. Store Spare Snacks in the Car
- Snack Bags: Use reusable snack bags to store healthy treats like nuts, dried fruit, and granola bars.
- Emergency Kit: Keep a small bin in the trunk with snacks, water bottles, and a first-aid kit.
12. Pack Up a Pencil Case
- Multi-Compartment Cases: Choose cases with multiple compartments to keep pens, pencils, and other supplies organized.
- Travel-Friendly: Select a pencil case with a handle or strap for easy carrying.
13. Hang a Chore Chart
- Visual Tracking: Use a chart with visual elements like stars or checkmarks to track completed chores.
- Reward System: Implement a reward system to motivate kids to complete their chores.
14. Stock Up on After-School Snacks
- Snack Stations: Designate areas in the pantry and fridge for healthy snacks like fruit, yogurt, and granola bars.
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Portion Control: Use small containers or snack-sized bags to pre-portion snacks.
These tips should help you create a smooth and organized transition back to school. Good luck!