What to Organize Before Back to School
Tips From a Mom/ Former Teacher/ Professional Organizer
As summer winds down, the back-to-school buzz begins — shopping lists, new backpacks, sharpened pencils, and maybe a few groans from the kids (and parents). But beyond school supplies, there's a quieter kind of prep that can make your mornings smoother, your evenings calmer, and your whole home feel a little more ready: organizing your spaces and routines.
Here are the often-overlooked things to organize before that first school bell rings:
1. The Morning Launch Zone
You know the chaos: lost shoes, forgotten water bottles, and a mad dash to the car. Create a designated “launch zone”near your entryway or mudroom where each child has:
A hook for their backpack
A bin or shelf for shoes
A tray for lunch boxes and water bottles
A weekly calendar or dry erase board with activities and reminders
💡 Pro tip: Add a bin labeled “Return to School” for things like library books, permission slips, and signed forms.
2. Lunch-Making Station
Lunches are easier when you’re not digging through random drawers. Set up a dedicated space in a pantry or cabinet for:
Snacks (grouped in clear bins)
Reusable containers and sandwich bags
Lunch boxes and thermoses
You can also prep a mini fridge bin with grab-and-go items like yogurts, fruit, or string cheese. If your kids are old enough, label everything and teach them to pack their own lunch the night before.
3. Homework Headquarters
Forget the kitchen counter clutter. Even if you don’t have a full office or homework room, you can still create a homework-friendly zone. All you need is:
A flat surface (desk, table, or portable lap desk)
A supply caddy with pencils, scissors, glue, etc.
A folder or tray for in-progress assignments
Keeping everything contained and accessible means fewer distractions — and less nagging from you.
4. Kid-Friendly Wardrobe System
Mornings go smoother when clothes are ready to go. Simplify your kids’ closets or dressers by:
Removing clothes that no longer fit
Sorting items by category (school uniforms, casual, athletic)
Using labeled bins or drawer dividers
💡 Bonus Tip: Use a hanging organizer to plan outfits for the week — one labeled slot per day.
5. The Family Command Center
School brings papers. Lots of papers. Set up a simple command center with:
An inbox for school forms and flyers
A family calendar with color-coded activities
A file folder or binder for each child’s school paperwork
This one system alone can eliminate piles on your kitchen counter.
6. Digital Decluttering for Parents
While you’re setting the kids up for success, take a moment for yourself too. Set up:
A shared family calendar app (Google Calendar, Cozi, etc.)
Folders for school emails and digital paperwork
Reminders for recurring tasks like school picture day, sports sign-ups, or PTO meetings
It’s not just physical clutter that overwhelms — digital chaos counts too.
Ready, Set… Breathe.
Getting ready for back-to-school doesn’t have to be frantic. A few thoughtful organizing systems now can lead to calmer mornings, smoother routines, and a home that supports your family during one of the busiest seasons of the year.
Need help getting these spaces in order?
Whether it’s creating a custom lunch station or turning your entryway into a functional launch pad, I’d love to help. Click on the button below to contact me and get started!
A.T. Home Organizing provides professional home organizing services in Austin, TX and surrounding areas. We help our clients feel less overwhelmed in their homes by decluttering, organizing, and setting up systems that last. Click here to book a free consultation so you can feel more at peace in your home.
