Command Center Must-Haves this Back-to-School Season
As a professional organizer and a parent of three small kids—two in elementary school and one in preschool—managing the chaos of back-to-school season is a challenge I know all too well. Between all the paperwork, artwork, schedules, backpacks, and electronics, it can very quickly become overwhelming. But creating a well-organized command center truly can cut down on the chaos and make all the difference for smoother school days. Set it up before the back-to-school rush begins, and future you will be SO thankful as you sit sipping your morning coffee instead of frantically searching for the missing library book and iPad five minutes before the bus arrives. (We can dream, right?!)
Here are some must-haves when it comes to ensuring your command center is functional for everyone in the family:
1. Dedicated Space
Choose a central location in your home for your command center. This could be a dedicated mudroom or entryway area, a corner of the kitchen, a section of the hallway, or even a repurposed closet. The key is to have a dedicated space where everything school-related can be easily accessed, organized, and stored. Give each child their own cubby, bin, or shelf for personal items. Label their area with their name - personalization helps kids take ownership of their space and makes it easier for them to keep things organized!
2. Wall Calendar
A large, visible wall calendar is essential for keeping track of important dates, deadlines, and events. If you use an electronic calendar, consider a smart calendar that syncs with your existing system so everyone can see the schedule for the week ahead. If you prefer a manual approach, opt for a dry-erase or chalkboard calendar. Make it a family activity to review and update the calendar weekly, ensuring everyone is on the same page.
3. Paper Management System
School papers QUICKLY pile up if not managed properly. It’s astonishing how many papers come into our homes during the school year. Invest in a paper management system to handle all the papers. A wall-mounted file organizer with labeled slots, or cubbies with divided and labeled sections for each child works well. Have separate slots for incoming papers, to-be-signed documents, and completed assignments. Regularly sort through incoming papers to decide what to keep and what to discard. This prevents overflow and keeps the paper management system user-friendly. If slots or sections become too full, the system loses its effectiveness.
4. Artwork Display
Children’s artwork is precious, but it can also take over your home. Create a dedicated display area for their masterpieces. Use a specialized kids’ artwork photo frame, a magnetic board, or a string with clothespins to showcase their work for a period of time. Rotate artwork regularly, and be selective about what to keep from the onset. Consider photographing older pieces to create a digital archive before storing or discarding them. This will leave you with a curated selection that’s manageable and enjoyable to look back at for years to come.
5. Backpack Station
Designate a specific spot for backpacks, ideally near the door they’ll be entering. Ensure each child has their own hook (ideally at child-friendly height) and get them in the habit of hanging up their backpacks as soon as they come home, emptying the contents, and slotting papers into the appropriate section of your command center. This will prevent (or at least limit!) bags from being left all over the house and make mornings smoother.
6. Electronics Charging Station
With the increasing use of tablets, laptops, and other electronics in schools, a charging station is a must. Create a central charging hub with enough outlets and chargers for all devices. Ideally, this is the same location as or close to your dedicated command center or where backpacks are stored. Use cable organizers to keep cords tidy and label chargers with each kid’s name if necessary to avoid confusion (or arguments). Consider investing in an extra charger so one is always at the command center / charging station and one is always in the backpack to simplify packing for school each day.
Final Thoughts
An organized back-to-school command center can be a game-changer for busy families. By incorporating these must-haves, you’ll create a functional and efficient space that keeps school-related chaos at bay. Remember, the key to maintaining an organized command center is consistency and regular upkeep. Involve your kids in the process and make it a family effort to keep the space tidy and organized. Get in the habit of meeting as a family before the start of each week to ensure everyone’s prepared for the activities ahead and to limit stress-inducing last-minute surprises. Here’s to a smooth and successful school year!
Hi there! I’m Kristen, and I’m a professional organizer and owner of Simplified Professional Organizing in Pittsburgh, PA. My team and I absolutely love helping people simplify their homes, businesses, and day-to-day lives. No matter where you’re at in your organizing journey, we’re here to help.
Click HERE to schedule a complimentary consultation to talk about how we can help you eliminate the overwhelm and reclaim space in life for what truly matters most!
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