As the summer winds down and back-to-school season kicks into gear, it’s the perfect time to reset—not just routines, but also your home. A few small changes can help keep everyone organized, focused, and ready for a smooth transition into fall. Whether you’re juggling drop-offs, after-school activities, or remote study sessions, here are some ways to get your home back-to-school ready.
How to Get Your Home Back to School Ready
1. Create a Homework Station
Designating a space for schoolwork can make all the difference in focus and productivity. It doesn’t have to be a full room—a quiet corner of the living room, a nook in the kitchen, or even a small desk in a bedroom will do. Once you’ve chosen a spot, stock it with essentials like pencils, notebooks, and chargers. Choose a spot away from high-traffic areas with good lighting for comfortable studying.
2. Set Up a Drop Zone
Backpacks, lunchboxes, sports gear, and shoes can quickly take over your entryway. A “drop zone” by the door—complete with hooks, cubbies, and baskets—keeps everything in one place, helping mornings run more smoothly.
3. Refresh Study Supplies at Home
Just like you stock up on school supplies, it’s worth refreshing the supplies you keep at home. A small organizer with pens, paper, scissors, and glue makes it easier for kids to complete projects without the last-minute scramble.
4. Organize with a Family Command Center
Set up a family command center. A calendar, chalkboard, or pinboard in a central spot makes it easier to keep track of assignments, practices, and events. For older students, syncing digital calendars across devices also ensures everyone stays in the loop.
5. Rethink Bedrooms for Better Sleep
With early mornings back on the schedule, a restful night’s sleep is key. Cozy bedding, blackout curtains, and calming colors like soft blues, warm grays, or sage green can help kids wind down at bedtime. Decluttering also goes a long way in creating a calm environment.
6. Streamline the Kitchen for Busy Mornings
Clear out a section of the pantry for grab-and-go snacks, or dedicate a shelf in the fridge for packed lunch items. A little organization can shave valuable minutes off the morning rush.
7. Add a Quiet Zone
Beyond homework, kids (and parents) sometimes need a calm spot to reset. A cozy reading nook or corner with beanbags and books can encourage downtime away from screens.
Setting the Stage for a Great School Year
A few simple shifts can make your home more functional and less stressful during the school year. From carving out a homework station to setting up a family calendar, these changes set the stage for a successful year ahead—for both kids and parents.