How to Create an Efficient Morning Routine for School Days

Aug 7

The back-to-school season is here, and with it comes the need for a smooth and stress-free morning routine. As professional organizers, we understand the importance of starting the day right, especially for busy families. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create an efficient morning routine for school days that sets everyone up for success.

Plan the Night Before

Preparation is Key:

Lay out clothes: Ensure everyone’s clothes, including yours, are ready the night before. This simple step can save precious minutes in the morning. To take it a step further, use a hanging closet organizer in your kids' closet and pick out their outfits for the week. Each day, they just need to grab clothes from each hanging shelf!
Pack bags: Have backpacks packed with completed homework, signed forms, and necessary supplies.
Prepare lunches: Pre-pack lunches and snacks to avoid the morning rush.

Create a Consistent Wake-Up Routine

Consistency is Crucial:

Set alarms: Establish a consistent wake-up time for everyone. Use fun alarm tones for kids to make waking up enjoyable. I use Alexa to wake up my kids with fun tones and add automated routines like turning on their lamps to help them wake up.
Morning hygiene: Encourage your kids to follow a morning hygiene routine, including brushing teeth and washing faces, right after they wake up. A checklist with their hygiene routine posted on the bathroom mirror is helpful.

Organize a Breakfast Station

Healthy Starts Matter:

Meal prep: Consider prepping breakfast items like overnight oats or smoothie ingredients the night before. On Sunday afternoons, we prepare an entire week's worth of breakfast items that can be quickly reheated for protein-packed, on-the-go options like egg bites, breakfast burritos, or sandwiches.
Quick options: Keep healthy, quick breakfast options like fruits, yogurt, and granola bars accessible for those days when you run out of time.

Designate a Command Center

Centralize Information:

Calendar: Use a family calendar to keep track of school events, extracurricular activities, and appointments.
Checklist: Create a morning checklist for kids to follow, including tasks like making the bed and packing lunch. I have these posted in each kid's bedroom for helpful reminders of what needs to be done.

Implement Time-Saving Tips

Efficiency Hacks:

Set a timer: Use timers for specific tasks like brushing teeth or getting dressed to keep everyone on track. Alexa can help with automated routine reminders of tasks that need to be completed and how many minutes are left before we have to leave.
Streamline routines: Identify and eliminate any unnecessary steps in your morning routine.

Create a Calm Environment

Start the Day with Ease:

Music: Play calming music in the background to set a positive tone for the day. I have a playlist that automatically starts playing through our Echo devices to help everyone wake up and keep the atmosphere positive. Can you tell Alexa is this mom's best friend?!
Stay positive: Maintain a positive attitude to keep stress levels low and set a good example for your kids.

Establish a Departure Routine

Leave on Time:

5-minute warning: I set Alexa to remind everyone that they have 5 minutes until we walk out the door. It gives everyone a last opportunity to fix their hair or grab breakfast.
Designated spots: Keep keys, shoes, and other essentials in designated spots near the door to avoid last-minute scrambles.
Final check: Have a final check routine to ensure everyone has their necessary items (backpacks, lunchboxes, etc.) before heading out the door. I have a final checklist posted on the door we exit through to cut down on the chance of forgetting that lunchbox or sweatshirt.

Creating an efficient morning routine for school days takes a bit of planning, but the payoff is worth it. A well-organized morning sets a positive tone for the entire day, reducing stress for both parents and kids. By incorporating these tips, you can ensure your family is ready to face the day with confidence and calm.

For more organizing tips and personalized solutions, contact Practically Perfect Homes today. Let us help you create a home that supports a balanced and organized life!