Okay, let’s be real, summer is almost over and back-to-school season is almost here. Pretty soon you’ll be juggling lunch prep, school drop-offs, forgotten water bottles, permission slips etc….
That’s why now, before chaos begins, is the perfect time to set up a few systems that’ll do the heavy lifting for you. And no, we’re not talking about overhauling your entire house. We’re talking about five simple ideas that make it easier for your kids to stay organized and take ownership of their stuff, so you don’t have to constantly pick up after them.
Let’s dive into five super-practical, mom-tested solutions that’ll keep your home running smoother when school starts.
1. Use Labeled Clear Storage Bins – So They Can See It, Use It, & Put It Back
Clear bins are a total game-changer. Why? Because if kids can see what’s inside, they’re way more likely to use it—and actually put it away.
We recommend going with open top bins for extra easy access, even kids with ADHD will be able to follow the system. Bonus points for using pictures along with words if your little ones aren’t reading yet. Trust me, it totally changes the clean-up time. When everything has a spot and a label, you’ll tidy the whole house in no time.
2. Implement a Cubby System – One Spot Per Kid, Period.
Take inspiration from daycares and schools. They’re managing dozens of kids, and yet somehow, every child’s stuff has a place and a system. Why? Because every kid has their own assigned space. That same concept can work beautifully at home.
Give each child their own little cubby. This becomes the go-to drop zone for:
- Backpacks
- Lunch bags
- Shoes
- Important papers
- All the random stuff they bring home
If you want to level it up a bit, add a hook above each cubby for jackets or hats. A name tag makes it feel special and helps little ones learn responsibility early. You can create a full setup from IKEA cube shelves or repurpose furniture you already have. It’s about creating a system, not buying a whole new entryway.
Let your space work for you and give your kids a chance to take ownership of their daily routine. It’s one small shift that brings big results.
3. Create a Toy & Book Rotation System
Here’s a little trick straight out of the Montessori playbook: rotate your toys and books. You don’t need everything out at once. In fact, kids focus better with less.
Store some toys and books in bins out of sight (closets, basement storage, or under-bed in low bins), and every month, swap out what’s in rotation. What it does:
- Keeps things fresh, old toys feel new again
- Prevents overwhelm (for you and them)
- Cuts down on clutter in play areas
Mom tip: Make this a monthly ritual with your kids. Put on some music, make a snack platter, and call it “Toy Swap Time.”
4. Designate a Homework Station
Too often I see kitchen and dinning room tables converted into project in progress that lasts year round and clutters the whole area. It’s understandable why this happens, as kids want to do their homework around parents, especially the young ones. Decide where they will be doing their homework and create a homework station there. Homework station is basically a cabinet or drawer, closest to the table, where all the binders, pens, pencils, highlighters and rulers will live.
5. Use Hooks & Racks
Let’s face it, backpacks, coats, and hats often times end up on the floor. The solution? Hooks and racks at kid height. This way, they can hang things up the minute they walk in the door. No excuses. No nagging.
FAQ
Q: What age can kids start using these systems?
Start simple as young as 2-3 years old! Use pictures, make it fun, and gradually add more responsibility.
Q: What if I have limited space?
Hooks behind doors, over-the-door storage, stackable bins, or under-bed boxes can all help maximize tight spots.
Q: Do I need to buy everything new?
Not at all! Use what you have first. And remember: Dollarama, Amazon, IKEA, and Facebook Marketplace have lots of affordable organizing finds.
