4 Back to school tips to stay organized and keep kids happy

My kids went back to school about a month ago and I must admit, things are running pretty smooth around here during the school week….. despite the fact that we all still wish we were in summer break mode just a bit longer. But we’re not, so we set the alarm, put on our happy faces, get out the backpacks and use these 4 back to school tips to stay organized and keep kids happy.

Thanks to the gals over at 11 Magnolia Lane for inviting me to their Operation Organization series. I got the chance to meet Amy and Christy earlier this month at Haven, and they are just the sweetest!

4 Back to school tips to stay organized and keep kids happy

Tip 1 Create a daily routine

I would say that during the school week our morning and afternoon routines are like a well oiled machine. My kids, even without a lot of prompting know what’s expected and get it done. This is not to say that we don’t need the occasional reminders from time to time.  Our afternoon routine looks something like this.

• Empty backpacks on the counter. Take out lunch box and water bottle.
• Get all homework and school papers out and put on the counter.
• Have agenda out for mom or dad to sign.
• Choose a snack for the next day and put it in the backpack
• Hang backpack up in hallway.
• Snack
• Homework
• Chores
• Play time

Tip 2 Keep a schedule and post it for the kids to see

Just like some of us, most kids prefer to have a schedule or a list of what’s expected. I discovered this weekly calendar about a year ago and use it to help my family understand what’s going on throughout the week from activities to chores to quick reminders.  Each of my kids has their own color tab on the calendar so they know what to look for and what they need to do during the week. This is our first year having an organized chore list and although it’s fairly basic stuff around the house, it’s more about teaching them accountability and responsibility.

Tip 3 Make Lunch Special

My kids will tell me each day whether they want mom to pack lunch or get school lunch. When they are doing homework I will pack lunches for the next day. In their lunch boxes I always include a little note to put a smile on their face when they open their lunch box. Last year my son saved every single note that I had written him during the school year, so I knew that this was something that he thought was special as well. 

Tip 4 Have a dedicated space for backpacks and shoes

Although we are fortunate to have a dedicated spot to put shoes, coats and backpacks in our breezeway, the space can get a little junked up and out of hand from time to time. Last spring I actually got rid of the lockers and cubbies that I had  here and replaced them with benches with shoe space underneath. Hooks on the walls make the perfect spot for backpacks to hang. Having fewer places for ‘stuff’ to go has actually helped this area stay cleaner and more organized…. and the kids know exactly where their shoes are each morning.  Even if you are limited on space, find a spot that school stuff can call home and that everyone can easily get to and find each day. It will make your morning routine flow a lot smoother…and everyone will have their happy face on.

Which of my 4 Back to school tips to stay organized and keep kids happy do you think you will incorporate into your school routine?

And if your kids wear uniforms to school like mine, you may enjoy this post on some tips for the kids who wear the same outfit every day.

 

affiliate links usedReady for more great tips and ideas to make your back to school a success…..

11 Magnolia Lane/Dixie Delights/Just a Girl and her blog/Organizing Made Fun

And come back on Wednesday for even more ideas and links.