Family Organization and Schedules

School mornings can be hectic. The trick is organization. It will not only help things run more smoothly but will teach the kids skills for life.  Set up a special place to organize family information. Maybe a table in the den, hang a paper calendar over the table to write in appointments and schedules. Provide each family member with a folder. Place important papers directly in the folders, preventing any lost papers. Put up a chalk board. Anyone can leave a quick note, phone numbers, shopping lists, to do lists and reminders.

Post a weekly plan, chores, practice, and bedtime routines. Designate a special pantry or cabinet shelf for lunch foods. Let the children pack their own lunches. Even young children can do this with a little practice. Make a habit of packing lunches at night before bedtime.Let the kids do it if they are old enough. Have a shelf for few healthy snacks kids can grab when on the way to practice, and include healthy breakfast choices for when you’re running late.

In the mud room or entrance, have a bench with underseat storage for shoes and other odds and ends. Or have a bin for each child to store his own belongings. Place plenty of hooks for hoodies, backpacks, and coats. Keep a small storage box such as margarine bowls, plastic jars, or basket for each child for keys, lunch money and wallets. There will be mo more hunting for backpacks, shoes, keys and lunch money in the mornings before school. Have kids bring their lunch boxes directly to the kitchen and laundry directly to the laundry room.

Create a study area. It can be on a counter in the kitchen, the dining table, or a table in the living room or den. You will probably want to include a laptop, according to the age of your children for homework help. But do have a shelf or plastic basket to keep school supplies at hand. You might want to have a pencil sharpener close by.

Discuss your family schedules and routines and listen to suggestions from the kids. They might have helpful input.