Back to School, Back to Routine: 5 Simple Ways to Prep for a Smooth School Year
The start of a new school year brings excitement - and chaos.
Here are 5 simple ways to get your home in order, so your life follows.
1. Create a Drop Zone
Designate a specific area near your entryway for backpacks, shoes, and jackets. Hooks, labeled bins, and a small bench can do wonders! No more last minute searches!
2. Lunchbox Central
Dedicate a drawer or bin in the pantry for lunchbox staples (think granola bars, juice boxes, snacks). Pair it with a fridge bin for cold items.
5 Basics to Keep in Mind When Packing Lunches:
Whole grain
Protein
Fruits and veggies
Dairy
Water - in a reusable bottle!
Bonus: your kids can (and should) help pack their own lunches! Promote independence!
3. Homework Stations that Work
Whether it’s a corner of the kitchen or a desk in their room, having a clutter-free zone for homework helps kids focus. Keep supplies easily accessible!
4. Simplify School Mornings
Group outfits for the week in labeled bins or hangers. Set out clothes the night before. Even younger kids can take the lead with visual labels or pre-filled outfit bags.
Bonus: Make it part of your evening routine to lay out the next day outfit. It makes those early mornings so much easier!
5. Calendars and Command Centers
Use a whiteboard, wall calendar, or app to track everyone’s schedule. Add a family command center with papers, permission slips, and to-do lists to keep the mental load manageable.
Our personal fav is Google Calendar. It can be shared with family, dates repeated, color coded, and more - and its FREE!
Need Help Getting It All Set Up?
Structured Clarity offers in-home organizing sessions tailored to your family’s needs. We’ll declutter, design, and implement systems that work long after the first bell rings.
Complimentary consults
Kid-friendly set ups
Donation haul-away included
Let’s make this school year your most organized yet.