You won't believe it? Two-a-days are starting Monday for my boys, which means the school year is just around the corner! It feels like summer just started, but here we are, gearing up for another busy season of classes, homework, practices, and ball games. This weekend, I'm all about getting the house back in order so life runs smoothly when school officially starts. Fingers crossed!
Here are my top five tips to get the house in order and ready for the kids:
Set Up a Family Calendar:
With practices, games, and school events, keeping track of everyone's schedule is essential. A family calendar in a central location (our calendars are in the mudroom) is a lifesaver. I also do two months at a time to help us look a sports seasons at a glance. If you want to get fancy, use different colors for each family member to keep things organized. This way, everyone knows what's happening and when to avoid mix-ups or double bookings. I don't do this...I'm just proud that I write the events down. Baby steps.
2. Create a Weekly Meal Plan:
Creating a meal plan has been a game-changer for our family, especially when the boys are in sports. I usually make a schedule for the week and plan accordingly for our schedule. Then, I buy groceries online and pick them up on Sunday. Scheduling a grocery pickup is a major time saver too!
It's a great help to know what we're having each night, especially when the boys have practices or games. This year, I aim to make freezer meals for the nights the boys have scrimmages or games to help save time and money. Wish me luck!
Your meal plan doesn't have to be fancy just something to keep you organized.
I made this one on the way to Caden's baseball game this morning. I also forgot the "g" in energy bites for Monday. Don't judge!
3. Designate an Area for School Supplies and Papers:
Create a dedicated space for homework supplies and important papers. A simple setup with containers for pencils, pens, forms, and other essentials will do the trick. An organized spot systemizes everything and ensures nothing important gets lost in the shuffle. I put mine in the kitchen so I can look at everything while I'm cooking and talking to the boys. I found this organizer at GoodWill; it's the perfect piece to organize supplies.
We also have a cabinet in our mudroom where we keep extra pencils, pens, binders, spirals, etc., so they're easy for the boys to find throughout the year. We grab multiple supplies when everything is on sale at the beginning of school.
4. Organize School Gear:
Having athletes... there is a lot of stuff! Athletic bags, backpacks, lunch kits, and keys. I like to keep everything in one spot—luckily, we have a locker system in our mudroom for all the bags, and I keep a small basket by the backdoor for our keys. This way, they can grab their stuff quickly and avoid the dreaded "Mom, where's my cleats?" moments—or at least I hope!
If you don't have a mudroom or lockers, here are a few other options.
Pictures from What Mom Loves, School Run Messy Buns
5. Establish a Routine:
Our family thrives on routine, and having a schedule helps everyone stay on track. Start easing back into the school routine a week before school starts. Gradually adjust bedtimes and wake-up times so it's not a shock to the system. Also, "consistent" is going to look different for everyone. Now that the boys are in high school, bedtimes and mealtimes are at the mercy of their schedules. My best advice is that everyone's family is different and can handle different schedules, so don't pressure yourself to follow a "perfect" schedule. Do what is best and most reasonable for your family.
I'm excited (and a little nervous) about the boys starting two days, but I know that with a bit of planning and organization, our family will handle it like champs.
Here's to a fantastic school year for our kiddos filled with growth, fun, and many memories!
Do you have any tips for getting ready for the school year? I'd love to hear them!
Until next time,
amber :)
Oh, and in case you need a few organizational items:
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