“I’ve always loved the first day of school better than the last day of school. Firsts are the best because they are beginnings.” – Jenny Han
Back-to-School is a good time to start organizing and implementing solutions that will save you time throughout the school year.
Calendar:
Set up and use a Family calendar app to keep everyone’s schedule in one place.
In-home School Station:
Set up an in-home work/school station with labeled bins/baskets that are color coded for each child.
Hang a wall map or display artwork. Be sure the space is functional and comfortable. Since more families are working out of the home it is important to give your children the space and support they need to study and create.
For reminders you just can’t forget, write them on sticky notes and place them where they’re most helpful.
Organizer ideas:
Over the door organizers are a great way to organize a variety of items including school and art supplies.
Paperwork:
Create a “home file” and give each class its own color-coded file for future, due and past assignments. Labeled envelopes or bins are a great way to keep loose papers in one spot.
Find out the required paperwork your child will need to start. Place all the papers in a large, clearly marked envelope or file and photocopy everything, or collect all required documents into a folder on your desktop.
Morning Routine:
Even young kids can start to develop morning routines, by using Echo Dot Kid’s Edition. It can tell them the weather and set alarms for waking up, brushing teeth, and getting dressed.
In your kitchen area, turn a bar cart into a breakfast area, include; granola bars, dry cereal, pop tarts, bread, peanut butter & jelly for kids to grab and go.
Also, the same concept can apply to the fridge…store deli meats, cheeses, and spreads in a special fridge spot. Add pre-portioned fruits and veggies too.
Snack Time:
When it comes to snack time, use reusable storage bags and designate a favorite color for each child so there is no confusion.
Donating | School Shopping:
Before school shopping, go through your child’s clothes, and donate the ones they have outgrown. It’ll be easier to choose outfits if there’s less clutter. After you and your child are through cleaning, make a list of everything they’ll need for the coming year, from socks to crayons. Ask their teacher or the school for a list of supplies, and check what’s missing. Buy extras of essential items and store them for later.
School Supplies:
Make sure study time is simple by stocking a caddy with essentials like pencils, markers, and scissors.
If you need assistance with school supplies and don’t have the resources to get your own, contact your school district, they can help lead you to the right contacts or let you know about upcoming supply drives and events.
Also, you can make a donation to one of your local nonprofits.
