How to Create an Efficient Morning Routine for School Days

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!

Summer Break Survival Guide: Easy Tips for Moms to Keep Order and Sanity

Ah, summer break—the time when the kids are home, the schedule is out the window, and chaos seems to reign supreme. For moms everywhere, maintaining order during these months can feel like an uphill battle. But fear not! With a few simple tricks up your sleeve, you can keep your household running smoothly and your sanity intact. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate the challenges of summer break and keep it all together.

1. Create a Flexible Schedule:

Summer break doesn't have to mean throwing all routines out the window. Establishing a loose daily schedule can provide structure while still allowing for plenty of flexibility. Set aside specific blocks of time for activities like outdoor play, crafts, reading, and quiet time. Having a rough outline of the day can help keep everyone on track without feeling too regimented.

2. Embrace the Power of Lists:

With kids home all day, it's easy for tasks to pile up and get overwhelming. Combat the chaos by making lists. Create a daily to-do list that includes both household chores and fun activities. Encourage the kids to participate by making their own lists of things they want to do. Checking items off a list can provide a sense of accomplishment and help keep everyone motivated.

3. Implement a Daily Clean-Up Routine:

It's no secret that kids can create messes faster than you can clean them up. Instead of letting clutter accumulate, institute a daily clean-up routine. Set aside time each day for a quick tidy-up session where everyone pitches in to put toys away, clear off surfaces, and straighten up common areas. in our home we do this right before our bedtime routine so that moms evening routine is a little easier and we can wake up to a tidy home. A few minutes of tidying each day can go a long way in maintaining order throughout the summer.

4. Get Creative with Storage Solutions:

Finding storage solutions that work for your family can help minimize clutter and keep things organized. Invest in bins, baskets, and shelving units to corral toys, books, and other belongings. Get creative with storage solutions that serve double duty, such as ottomans with hidden compartments or wall-mounted organizers. Encourage kids to take ownership of their belongings by labeling storage bins and assigning them specific spaces for their things.

5. Prioritize Self-Care:

Last but certainly not least, don't forget to prioritize self-care amidst the hustle and bustle of summer break. Taking care of yourself is essential for maintaining your sanity and being the best mom you can be. Carve out some time each day to recharge and do something you enjoy, whether it's reading a book, going for a walk, or simply taking a few deep breaths. Remember, you can't pour from an empty cup, so be sure to fill yours up regularly.

Summer break may bring its fair share of challenges, but with a little planning and creativity, you can keep your household running smoothly and maintain your sanity in the process. By creating a flexible schedule, embracing the power of lists, implementing a daily clean-up routine, getting creative with storage solutions, and prioritizing self-care, you'll be well-equipped to tackle whatever the summer months throw your way. So take a deep breath, mama—you've got this!

Finding Peace Amidst Chaos: How Decluttering Transforms Moms Mental Health

Motherhood, with its whirlwind of responsibilities and joys, often leaves us feeling like we're juggling too many balls in the air. Our homes, the epicenter of family life, can quickly descend into chaos, mirroring the hectic rhythm of our days. But what if I told you that reclaiming your sanity starts with something as simple as decluttering and organizing your home? Let's explore how embracing this journey can breathe new life into your role as a mom and elevate your mental well-being.

The Messy Reality of Mom Life

As moms, our days are a delicate balance of caregiving, managing schedules, and maintaining the household. Amidst the laundry, school runs, and a million appointments it's all too easy for clutter to accumulate like dust bunnies (or in my case, dog hair!) in the corner. Toys strewn across the living room, piles of laundry awaiting folding, and kitchen counters buried beneath crumbs and a mountain of dishes—it's a scene that's all too familiar to many of us.

The Hidden Toll of Clutter on Mom's Mental Health

But here's the thing: that clutter isn't just a nuisance; it's also silently chipping away at our mental well-being. The constant visual clutter can be overwhelming, adding to the mental load we carry as moms. Studies have shown that cluttered environments can spike stress levels, leaving us feeling frazzled and on edge, even in our own homes—the very places where we should feel most at ease. I know for me, seeing the clutter, especially the kind that comes from having eight people in one home, brings almost instant anxiety.

Embracing the Magic of Decluttering

But fear not, fellow moms, for there's a silver lining amidst the chaos: the magic of decluttering. It's not just about tidying up; it's about reclaiming control over our spaces and our lives. As we embark on this journey, we're not just clearing out physical clutter; we're also creating space for peace and serenity to enter our homes and our hearts.

The Empowerment of a Tidy Home

Picture this: a living room where toys find their way back to their designated bins, a kitchen where countertops gleam unobstructed, and a bedroom where clothes find refuge in neatly organized drawers. Sound like a dream? It's within reach, and the empowerment that comes with it is truly transformative.

Nurturing Mom's Mental Well-being

A decluttered and organized home isn't just about aesthetics; it's about nurturing our mental well-being as moms. With less clutter to contend with, we're able to breathe easier and focus on what truly matters: making memories with our loved ones. We reclaim precious time and energy that can be channeled into self-care practices, whether it's enjoying a hot cup of coffee in peace or indulging in a long-overdue bubble bath.

Celebrating Imperfect Progress

So, fellow moms, let's embark on this journey together, one baby step at a time. Start with that junk drawer, or the pile of mail that has been staring you in the face. It doesn’t have to be perfect, you just have to start. Embrace imperfection, celebrate progress, and remember that it's not about achieving Pinterest-perfect perfection; it's about creating a home that feels like a sanctuary for you and your family. As we declutter our homes, we're also decluttering our minds, making space for joy, laughter, and the beautiful messiness of motherhood.

xoxo

Mastering Small Space Organization: Tips for Taming Tiny Items

In the world of home organization, tackling clutter isn't just about dealing with oversized items or bulky furniture. Most often, it's the small items sprinkled throughout the home that cause the greatest challenge. From makeup and office supplies to toiletries and kitchen gadgets, these small items have a knack for disappearing into the abyss of drawers or gathering dust in forgotten corners. However, with a strategic approach and some smart solutions, you can transform even the tiniest nooks into orderly havens of efficiency. 

Here are some expert tips for organizing small items: 

1. Declutter First, Organize Later: Before diving into organizing, take stock of your small items and ruthlessly declutter. It helps to sort items according to type so you can easily see if you have too many of one type of item. Assess each item's usefulness and sentimental value, and be willing to part ways with those that no longer serve a purpose. This step not only frees up space but also makes the organizing process more manageable.

2. Group Similar Items Together: Grouping similar items together streamlines organization and makes it easier to locate specific items when needed. Whether it's grouping office supplies by category, arranging jewelry by type, or sorting craft supplies by color, categorizing small items fosters a sense of order and efficiency.

3. Embrace Vertical Storage: When space is limited, think vertically. Install shelves, hooks, or peg boards on walls to maximize storage potential. Utilize clear containers or bins with lids to corral small items while keeping them visible and accessible.

4. Divide and Conquer with Drawer Organizers: Drawer organizers are invaluable for keeping small items in check. Invest in dividers, trays, or compartmentalized inserts to divide drawers and prevent items from jumbling together. I have even made my own trays from empty zip-lock bag boxes cut down to size. This ensures that each item has its designated spot, making it easier to find and maintain order.

5. Utilize Unused Spaces: Make use of underutilized spaces such as the backs of doors, inside cabinet doors, or the sides of furniture. Install hooks, racks, or magnetic strips to hang items like keys, jewelry, or office supplies, keeping them off surfaces and within reach. One of my favorite ways to use the back of a door is with a clear over the door shoe organizer like this; it’s easy to install, fairly inexpensive and you can clearly see your small items. 

6. Label Everything: Labels are your best friend when it comes to small item organization. Use adhesive labels, label makers, or chalkboard paint to clearly mark containers, drawers, or shelves. Not only do labels help you quickly locate items, but they also encourage everyone in your home to return items to their designated homes.

7. Rotate Seasonal Items: Seasonal items such as holiday decorations or outdoor accessories often take up valuable space when not in use. Keep these items organized by storing them in labeled bins or containers and rotating them in and out of storage as needed. This prevents clutter buildup and ensures that seasonal items are easily accessible when the time comes.

By applying these pro tips, you can conquer the challenge of organizing small items and reclaim precious space in your home. Remember, the key is to tailor your organization system to meet your needs and daily habits, ensuring that maintaining order becomes second nature. With a little creativity and commitment, even the smallest spaces can become places of tidiness and calm.

Even Monica Had Housebarrassment

My favorite show of all time is Friends. I don’t just watch it; I leave it on in the background when I work or when my kids have gone to bed and the house is too quiet for my liking. It makes me laugh out loud, and get all sad when their moments reflect my own, and I turn to it when it’s been an especially rough day and I just need a lighthearted pick me up. I sometimes respond in conversations with Friends quotes, and even named my home Wi-Fi based on a reference from a favorite episode.

All the characters are my favorite in one way or another, but by far the most relatable to me is, you probably guessed it, Monica. She is so neat and tidy, everything is categorized, the ottoman has to be in the exact right spot, she gets excited about cleaning products, wants her home to be inviting and comfortable for those she cares about most, and of course, she’s “always the hostess.” But even Monica got housebarrassment about that one secret closet that was completely disorganized. Thankfully Chandler made it clear that he didn’t love her because she was organized, he loved her in spite of it!

It doesn’t matter whether you are a disorganized mess all the time or the categorizing queen, we ALL have at least one space we hope no one ever sees. The people in our lives don’t usually care as much about the perfectly curated spaces like we think they will, they just want to feel loved and welcomed. But as a Monica, I know it’s really hard to relax and enjoy time with all those people we love so much when we are stressed about the closet or pantry (they’ll likely never open!) is a hot mess.

So instead of not inviting your friends or family over, pick one thing, big or small, and don’t stop until it’s organized. Maybe don’t start with your Monica closet all by yourself, but try the junk or top vanity drawer. Pull everything out, grab the hand vacuum to suck up all the yuck, wipe the drawer, grab a couple trash bags for donation and trash, and start sorting. Put like things together. Rummage through the house for any little baskets or containers that can be used to keep things tidy, or go buy some if it’s in your budget. When I didn’t have money for new containers I have even used old Tupperware that were missing lids or empty zip lock bag boxes that I trimmed down to fit! Use whatever you have, but whatever you do, don’t stop until it’s done! And of course, if it’s still not your thing, maybe you’re more of a Rachel and prefer (or need) Monica to do all the tidying, you can call me, your favorite professional organizer!