painless back-to-school organizational tips

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We’re exactly 4 weeks away from the start of the new school year, and while this mama isn't trying to rush the end of summer, I am trying to help my future self by simplifying the back-to-school tasks and frenzy!

I know we would all rather be sipping an ice-filled drink by the pool and bathing in back-to-school ignorance (cheers if you are mid sip), but I find tackling a few simple things up front makes the September routine that much smoother.

Plus, it gives you and your kid(s) a way to set the stage for the school year ahead, so everyone can ease back into the routine together.

paRE down WATER BOTTLES:

It's always a mystery how these seem to multiply, but the reality is we all have far more bottles than we need, and it only takes a few good ones to stay equipped and hydrated.

I recently edited our bottles to determine which were still in good condition and which were cluttering up the cabinet… While I don’t believe in a strict number to keep, there is always a “right” amount for you (without your cabinets bursting at the seams, of course).

Do you have multiple children? Are your kids in sports? Do you run the dishwasher every night? These factors can influence how many bottles you need. I find that keeping a few extras for gymnastics and weekend playdates are adequate even when multiple are in rotation at once. Less is definitely more in this category, and it’s always good to reapply any name labels that may have fallen off from the previous year.

Clear out backpacks:

Even if you are purchasing a new backpack, there will inevitably be a sport or weekend tote that needs a good cleaning. You know the one!

It’s amazing how much can be shoved into all the crevices of one bag… school supplies, trash, empty snack wrappers, tchotchkes… the elementary school trading game is a serious one, and it’s best to start with a squeaky clean slate.

If you're not sure if your bags will hold up in the wash, or you can’t wash them in the machine because of wheels, a good wipe-down with some disinfecting wipes or soapy water will do the trick!

one drop zone for ARTWORK:

Artwork, writing, origami…

This can quickly take over every surface of our homes if we so much as blink after Labor Day!

I find that designating one "home" for all the art creates simplicity and peace in my family's life. I use a drawer in my daughter's room as the art landing spot. If you can't spare a drawer, any vessel or container with a defined limit will do (no more Trader Joe's bags!)

Of course, we're not keeping everything (a lot goes in the recycling bin), but having a specific spot eliminates the need to make daily emotional decisions about what to keep.

This simple "rule" helps tame the chaos and gives us time to decide later which masterpieces truly deserve long-term keeping. For the record, that fruit bowl made the cut!

get Label happy:

Your kids’ school may have their own instructions on labeling school supplies (we have to meticulously label every folder and sharpie) but hey, you won’t hear any complaints from this label loving professional organizer!

Labels for me are the most affordable insurance plan - they ensure your kids have what they need, and when they inevitably leave their favorite sweatshirt at school, the odds are in your favor because it’s easily identifiable in the dreaded lost and found.

For those of you who are in the market for a label maker, I cannot live without my P Touch Cube.  Although I love a good and simple keyboard label maker too!

one stop charging statioN:

With every passing year, we seem to add more and more technology to our lives, which is why getting all the devices and cords organized is so important to keep it all in check.

I was gifted this Space Aid charging station, and I have to say, it really gets the job done!

Having a designated tech station means fool-proof charging: no hunting down power cords, and no sea of devices on your counters when you’re trying to get dinner on the table.

It means no one complains when we have to charge something, because everything is super easy to connect, and a guaranteed full battery when packing up for school.

I also love that it gives our devices a home when we all need necessary downtime from the myriad of screens to truly relax and connect.

What do you find helps your kids (and your future self) to prep for the school year ahead?  Comment below!