Three ways to tame the 'Back to School' clutter chaos

Valeri says most importantly, establish a routine for the kids.

“It may seem basic, but giving structure and routine for where kids’ ‘do' school in the home is huge! Whatever area your kids are doing their homework/school activities (whether that be in their own desk space or they’re using the kitchen table), set boundaries with them of where their schoolwork goes and where it doesn’t,” she explains.

“Teachers are teaching your student to put items back where they find them in the classroom, so the same goes with their supplies in the home. Some studies show doing work in bed disrupts your sleep schedule, so help them create boundaries for appropriate spaces to do their schoolwork and save yourself the sanity of finding art supplies in the bathroom.”

“At the end of the night before bed, set a timer for 15 minutes and have the kids put their supplies back where they belong and pack their backpack up so they’re ready to go in the morning!"

Now that my pre-schooler has to wear masks to school every day along with my second grader, establishing a place for them to put their masks and shoes when they walk in the door is crucial. Even my 22-month old knows to take his shoes off when we come inside. He doesn’t always put them in the bin in the closet, but we’re getting there.

Valeri says, "When setting up routines, it’s important for the kids (and you!) to have a place to set everything when you get home. Raise your hand if you are guilty of dropping everything on the kitchen table and then it stays there for a few days. We don’t want that!”

“Designate hooks or a basket near the door for clean/dirty masks to go, backpacks to live, and shoes/jackets to come off. Every family is different, but whatever items you typically are bringing in after each school day should have a location where the kids know to take it and it doesn’t become counter clutter!”

Now to my favorite part! Storage containers, carts, and boxes! I’ve recently been on a kick finding great storage containers at Target, craft stores, and even some sturdy ones at the Dollar Store! Just check out these great before and after photos of how containers can transform an overwhelming clutter pile into organized eye candy. So satisfying!

“These are also great because they are portable. Have a spot in the kitchen where the kids do their work but don’t want school supplies to permanently live in the kitchen? Roll them away and pull out as needed! Prefer something more permanent? Go for a bookshelf! Set up bins for your school categories, and of course label for easy finding!”