Back to School without the Back-to-School Chaos: 4 Systems to Set Up Now

1. Mudroom Drop Zone: Contain the Chaos

Backpacks, lunch boxes, soccer cleats, and laptops—if these things don’t have a designated spot, they’ll end up in every corner of your house. Creating a mudroom or entryway drop zone gives your kids a clear “home base” for all the things they toss aside the moment they walk in.

• Include hooks for backpacks and cubbies or bins for shoes.

• Add an outlet to charge school devices—bonus if it’s out of sight.

• Pro Tip: A dedicated sock bin in the mudroom is life-changing. Trust me, future-you will thank you when there’s no morning sock scavenger hunt.Make it stand out

2. Lunch Prep (That Doesn’t Involve Sandwiches)

Bento Boxes for the win!

If your kids are anything like mine, sandwiches are met with suspicious side-eye. That’s why I’ve embraced the beauty of bento boxes. The trick? Sunday prep.

• Wash and chop fruits and veggies for the week.

• Stock healthy snacks in easy-to-reach bins.

• Use clear containers so kids can help assemble lunches themselves.

[Link to our favorite lunch boxes and water bottles here.]

3. Outfit Organization: Laundry Meets Life Hack

5-Shelf Weekly Clothes Organizer

Even when we lay out clothes the night before, someone always forgets. The easiest fix? Let the laundry routine become the prep system.

• Use labeled bins or drawer organizers.

• As kids fold laundry, they sort outfits for the week.

• Each section = one outfit = one less battle in the morning.

4. Mastering the Schedule Shuffle

Conquer the scheduling mess!

From the 3 PM pickup to the 9 PM crash, evenings can feel like a relay race. Every family is different, but the one thing that works for everyone? Clear communication.

• Use a shared digital calendar for all family members.

• Or try a visual planner posted in the kitchen or mudroom.

• Most importantly—it’s not just one person’s job to manage the chaos. Make sure the whole household knows what’s coming up.

Final Thought: Set the Tone Before the Bell Rings

August doesn’t have to be a mad dash. Take this time to prep your home, so the school year starts off with systems that actually support your family’s rhythm. Your mornings might never be quiet—but they can be calm, efficient, and even a little enjoyable.

Here’s to a smooth, stress-less (and maybe even joyful) back-to-school season!

Ready to Create a Home that Works for You?

Let’s design a space that supports your family’s routine and style. From custom mudrooms to full-scale organizing, I’d love to help.
👉 Email me or DM me on Instagram to get started!