SCHOOL IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER!
It’s that time of year again. The relaxing days of summer are almost behind us. We’ve had such a warm summer already!
If you plan ahead, you’ll be ready for the first day of school.
Let’s get started and turn over another leaf!
GETTING ORGANIZED FOR BACK TO SCHOOL
Planning
- Don’t wait until the night before school starts to try and get your children into their back-to-school routine. Start a week or two before.
- The morning routine is under your control. Everyone will have a better day if it starts out calmly.
Clothing
Have your children try on all of their clothing to see what still fits. Make a list of what is needed.
School Supplies
Has the school provided a list of supplies that will be required?
- First, take inventory of the supplies you currently have. You may not need as many supplies as you think. Check out Katy Wolk-Stanley’s Just Say No to Unnecessary Brand New School Supplies!
- Stock up during the back-to-school sales. Keep in mind that saving a couple of dollars by running from store to store may not be worth the extra effort involved. Remember–your time is valuable!
If you can, support a School Supply Drive in your area. There are always children in need.
Ensure that backpacks are the correct size for your children.
- Let them choose one with your help; if they like it, they’ll be more likely to use it and less likely to lose it.
Lunches
Keep your cupboards well stocked with lunch items.
- Single-serving sizes may be more convenient, but they are more costly. Buying in bulk can cost less—if you have sufficient storage space.
- Keep a pen and paper handy in or near your pantry to note items that are running low.
- Reduce the environmental impact of making lunches every day–try to make them litter-less.
Labeling
Don’t forget to label all items your children take to school which need to be brought home each night or week.
Entryway/Mudroom
Have a designated spot for each child’s coat, mittens, boots, backpack and sports equipment.
Homework and Study Area
Make sure that your children have an area to do homework or study that is free from clutter, comfortable, well-lit and as quiet as possible.
- Pens, pencils, erasers, coloured pencils, markers, paper, glue, stapler, ruler, calculator, tape, scissors, etc. should all have a designated spot. If you’re limited for space, a rolling cart with drawers is great for storing art and school supplies.
- Keep reference materials handy, so children aren’t distracted by having to look for these items.
Calendar and Scheduling
All activities should be put onto one calendar.
- Keeping more than one calendar is difficult; it usually results in missed appointments.
- Label each family member’s activities in a different colour; let your children pick their favourite colour.
- Limit extra-curricular activities for each child. Try not to overschedule.
Your children need some time to just be kids!
Until next month,
P.S. Do YOU or someone you know need a professional organizer? TAKE OUR TEST and find out for yourself today!
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