Get organized for fall to make it easier for your kids to transition back to school, and for you to transition back to a more rigid schedule. Ultimately, an organization system for kids helps them grow in their responsibility, which means less daily work and oversight needed from you.
Homework First
Demonstrate to kids that their homework comes first before any other activity after school. Start this habit early, and they’ll keep it as they grow. Create a consistent space for homework with all the supplies they’ll need. Model this habit by doing your “homework” with them — paying bills, writing emails, planning and scheduling, and other home-oriented tasks.
Contain The Clutter
Create a place near your front door where kids’ backpacks and jackets, as well as adults’ purses and jackets go. Don’t forget a place for muddy or wet boots and shoes! As you and your kids go to school and work — and come home again — lead by example showing them that keeping all items together in this spot means nothing gets lost.
Feed Yourself
Choose a lower shelf in your pantry and refrigerator and add easy, healthy snacks and drinks that kids can access themselves, without your help. Once they’ve mastered getting their own after-school snacks responsibly, you can expand this idea to having them make their own lunches every morning. Again, here you can lead by example by making your own lunch with them.