Adorn: Getting organized for Back to School

By now, millions of children (and teenagers) have gone back to school. While most parents have bought all of the crayons, binders, paper, and backpacks, many don't consider how to create organization systems at home to keep track of the homework and endless amounts of paperwork kids bring home everyday. And, now that you have had a week or so (depending upon what part of the country you're in) to see what "Junior" has stashed into their backpacks each day, it's a great time to re-evaluate your organization systems at home.

For younger children where homework really isn't a factor yet, they still bring home many things from school. That prized piece of art from class, the field trip permission slip and even rocks they picked up off the playground! Managing the artwork can be a very touchy subject, especially since there's really no way to keep EVERYTHING! I recommend having a bulletin board where you can feature one or two of the week's art work, and then decide at the end of the week which pieces are worthy to for a scrapbook and which ones should be recycled. In my house, we have a family bulletin board where we keep key things like school lunch menus, phone numbers, and weekly art projects. (see below) Inside the door, each person in the family has their own folder for items, plus folders for bills and contact info.

For storing art work long-term, I highly recommend purchasing an acid-free photo or art box to ensure your precious memories are preserved for a long time to come! Exposures has many great options for this in a wide variety of colors and styles! http://www.exposuresonline.com/

For older children with homework, it's important to not only have a quiet, tidy area for doing homework, but an organized way to track due dates of homework projects. Of course, I'm not recommending that you be responsible for tracking your teenager's homework. However, provide them with tips/tricks, as well as a functional area, to be successful. For elementary-aged children, a kitchen table is a great place to work on homework. (assuming it's free of distractions - i.e. like a TV!) You can be close to them when a question arises and you might even use that time to work on your own homework (like bill paying, grocery lists, etc.).

For older children who prefer to do homework at their own desk or an office, there are many great options. As a professional organizer, I'm a huge fan of the Container Store. You can find everything from modular products to basic desks. But, the best part are all of the great accessories. When a desk is neatly organized, it makes homework go so much easily, and fun!

Here are just a few great desk ideas to help inspire you and your kids to have a successful school year. (plus: The Container Store is having a sale - don't miss the chance to get good deals on key organizing essentials!! see below for link)