Back to School

Now that I’m an adult and have a career as a professional organizer, I know first hand how routines help create a more predictable and balanced environment for everyone. They reduce anxiety and create stability. Routines also help us set clear expectations and structure for the day, making it easier to manage time and responsibilities. Without routines, things can go south very quickly.

Consider what happens when your family wakes up late for school. It immediately causes a domino effect resulting in all of you scrambling to make up for lost time. When your child is late to school, class is disrupted and the teacher has to do extra work to get everything back on track. Depending on where you live and how your school gets funded, tardiness can be a financial pain point, too. Bottom line: being late stresses everyone out and causes emotions to run high. But with a solid morning routine in place, there’s less chance you'll find yourself in this situation to begin with.

Tips to start the school year off right

With that in mind, here are some tips to help you and your family embrace routines and prep for the upcoming school year.

Ease back into your school routine in advance

Kick things off a few weeks before school starts. This will help everyone adjust to the upcoming schedule change and set you up for success. Focus on morning and nighttime routines (sleep schedules, breakfast, brushing teeth, showers, etc.). If your kids are old enough, help them get re-integrated and then check their progress. If they have smartphones or bedroom smart devices like Alexa, set alarms and reminders for them.

Set up stations or zones for belongings

I start prepping for the next day the night before. Put backpacks where they can easily be found and grabbed—near the front door, in baskets, etc. At night, all finished homework, school supplies, and non-perishables should go straight into the backpack before bed.

Establish a zone for shoes and coats and reinforce putting these items in that spot so everyone knows where to find them. You’d be shocked how many late school days start off with a missing pair of shoes. And five minutes late out the door can easily turn into 15 minutes or more behind schedule.

Prep lunch and snacks the night before

That way, you only have to remember to grab it from the refrigerator right before everyone walks out the door the next morning.

Set up and use a family calendar

Keep a family calendar in a central location, like the kitchen or living room, where everyone can see it. Use it to track important dates, assignments, extracurricular activities, and family events. This visual aid will help everyone stay on the same page and manage their time effectively.

Consistency is key

By implementing these and other strategies, you’ll not only make the start of the school year smoother, you’ll also instill valuable habits in your children that will benefit them well into adulthood. Routines create stability, reduce stress, and promote a sense of order that can make every day more manageable. Start now, and watch how a little organization can transform your family’s daily routine for the better.I hope these tips help you and your family create a great start to the new school year!

Are you ready to transform your space and mindset? Contact Sage Home Harmony today, and let us help you start your journey to a more organized, fulfilling life.