As the school season approaches, it’s the perfect time to refresh your home and prepare your kids for a successful school year. By tackling key areas now, you can reduce stress and create a more organized and productive environment. Let’s dive into three essential steps to make this transition smooth and enjoyable for everyone.
1. Purge the Closets for New School Clothes
Summer is ending, and it’s time to make room for those new school clothes! Begin by taking everything out of your kids’ closets—yes, everything. This process helps you see the entire wardrobe and makes decision-making easier.
Encourage Your Kids to Participate
Getting your kids involved in this process not only teaches them about organization but also helps them take ownership of their belongings. It’s a great way to build responsibility and awareness about the importance of giving back by donating.
Ask your kids what clothes they like, dislike, or simply don’t wear. Have them try on clothes to see if they still fit. Then create three piles: keep, donate, and discard. The “keep” pile should include only items that fit well and are in good condition. The “donate” pile is for clothes that are still wearable but no longer fit your child, or they no longer wear. Lastly, the “discard” pile is for items that are stained, torn, or beyond repair.
This is also an opportune time to create a list of items you and your family need to shop for.
2. Clear Out Old School Supplies & Papers
Kids’ closets can become dumping grounds for old school supplies and homework papers. As the new school year begins, it’s essential to clear out the old to make way for the new.
Determine What’s Worth Keeping
Start by gathering all the school supplies in one place. Test markers, pens, and other items to see if they still work. Keep what’s usable and recycle or dispose of the rest. Then make a list of the useable items—this helps you save time and money when purchasing the new supply list.
When it comes to homework papers and projects, work with your child to decide what’s worth keeping. Any work your child is particularly proud of can be saved in a designated “memory box.” Everything else should be recycled. Involving your child in this process can help them learn to manage their belongings and understand the importance of staying organized.
3. Set Up a Designated Homework Station
A designated homework station can make a big difference in your child’s ability to focus and complete assignments on time. Choose a quiet area of your home away from distractions and set it up as a dedicated space for schoolwork. If space is limited, you can create a similar effect with a “pop-up homework station” using a tri-fold presentation board outfitted with supplies.
Make it Fun & Functional
Ensure the homework station has all the necessary supplies within reach: pens, pencils, paper, a ruler, and any other items your child regularly uses. A comfortable chair and a clutter-free work surface are essential. Personalize the space with your child’s input. Maybe they’d like to add a fun lamp or some inspiring artwork. This involvement can make them feel more invested in using the space.
Keeping the homework station organized requires regular maintenance. Encourage your child or teenager to tidy up the area after each use. This habit helps maintain a clutter-free space and fosters a sense of responsibility.
We’re Here to help!
As the back-to-school busyness picks up, maintaining a clean and organized home can become challenging. Let Kingdom Keepers help you with routine cleaning, so you can focus on supporting your family during this busy season. Contact us today for a quote—and here’s to a stress-free start to the school year!
