With the new school year starting, many parents are feeling pressured!  Back to School Nights, school lunches, homework, children's schedules - it can all feel overwhelming.  Below are 10 helpful ideas to make life a little easier as this new adventure begins! 

• Create a Family Bulletin Board - This can be a place to post notes, keep your calendar, and be a central location for all notices from school.  A bulletin board can be as large or small as you need for the space you have available but can end up being your most useful organization tool!
• Have a Homework Station - Create a designated space for your child/children to go to everyday for homework.  This space needs to be free from distraction and a place where your student knows they can go to focus and complete their work.
• Filing System - Have a file system in place for important school papers throughout the year. Make one section for immediate attention and another for special papers like completed school work and art projects.
• After School Snack Station - Have snacks prepared and portioned for after school snacking so the children don't over eat and spoil their appetite.  A nice basket makes a great place to store these snacks so the children have easy access.
• Backpack Station - Have a designated place for backpacks, homework supplies, shoes and PE clothes so that everything is easily located in the morning rush.
• Hair Station - A basket filled with hair accessories and brushes makes hair brushing easy to do! It can eliminate one of the stressors in getting ready for the school day.   
• Family Calendar - Have a calendar set up and in sight for all of the family to be able to access.  One idea is using different colored pens for each member of the family.  A family calendar makes it easy for everyone to know exactly what their schedules are for the week.
• School Supplies Caddy - Have a place for refills and replacements to avoid late night running to the store for school items.  Stock up on paper, pens, pencils, erasers, glue sticks, and all of the other consumable items that students often need throughout the year.
• Art Project Organizer -  Designate a bin for artwork.  Keep a few pieces of art on display and fill a bin with others.  Wait until the end of the year to sort through and decide where their permanent homes will be. 
• Daily Reminders - Have sticky notes ready at all times to make last minute reminders for yourself or your family to post on the front door.  This way last minute items are not forgotten.

With a few simple organization tips, you can lower the everyday stress of being ready for school!  Have a wonderful new adventure with your students and a successful school year!