Back to School Chaos to Calm

Back to School! Yes, I've said it! I know it's the phrase kids dread hearing right now. While the carefree days of summer are wonderful, there's something comforting about the routine and structure the school year brings, even if it can be a bit hectic.

With one in college and one starting his junior year, my schedule is a lot freer than it ever has been.  That being said, I remember the hustle and bustle of the mornings and evenings with younger children like it was yesterday.  It was so hard!  I like to think back to the many mornings that went off with out a hitch, but who’s kidding? So many times I ended up with someone in tears on the ride to school because by the time I said, “Get your shoes on!” for the fourteenth time, I was losing it.  Some days I was the one in tears on the way to school feeling like a terrible, chaotic mom. How could anyone have a good day if it started this way?  I have a degree in Early Childhood and Family Studies, for Pete’s Sake!  I can manage a classroom full of children, what is going wrong here?? I longed for routine and order.

The truth is we all do what we can, the best we can.  Some days this means we hit all the targets and our children look as organized as the Von Trapp children with the Captain. Other days it means we look like we are herding cats while trying to juggle chainsaws.  It’s ok, we all have those days. We get it! Well, let me tell you what I learned in those days: I finally realized I needed to apply my classroom management skills to my home. Maybe this idea can help you too!

Routines.  Routines were the key to my classroom and they were certainly key to my family having smooth mornings and evenings.  Evening routines were the most important, especially with young children. They thrive on consistency and routines. Think about your mornings.  What could be done in the evening to alleviate stress in the mornings?  For my family, this meant laying out clothes and packing lunches the night before.  

Here is a sample of our evening routine when my children were young:

• Clean up toys 

• Dinner

• Make lunches (Kept in fridge until the A.M.) 

• Get out school clothes

• Pack any papers needed in backpacks and put backpacks at the door. (Should be done at homework time.)

• Bath/Potty

• Pjs

• Books

• Lights out

Every bit of this can be done with the help of your children.  We had approved snack baskets in the fridge and in the pantry for them to make healthy choices.  They were able to help make sandwiches too.  One child didn’t want bread so she simply rolled up lunchmeat and cheese!   

If you don’t want to fight about the clothes every night, get a 5-tiered shelf that hangs on the closet rod.  On Sundays put outfits together (1 per shelf), socks and underwear included.  

If toys are given a specified home, then clean up is easier.  Mom and Dad, you have to supervise this because kids are not a fan of clean up time.  They WILL shove things where they don’t belong if you aren’t in there.  Sorry, but you all know it’s the truth.  15 minutes should do it if it’s a nightly routine.  Clean up to music to make it more fun. 

Another suggestion that children will not be a fan of:  No electronics during the week.  I was not going to fight with my children every night to put away the ipad.  Once they had phones, they were plugged in to charge in our main hall at night.  

Now that all of this is done at night, the morning routine is easy.  (Insert evil laugh)  Well, easier than before?

Here is a sample of my morning routine:

Here is a sample of our morning routine when my children were young:

• Breakfast-try to think healthy and protein filled.  You can make breakfast muffins on the weekends if needed but kids need a healthy breakfast.  

• Get dressed-Hair, clothes, shoes and brushed teeth

• Put lunch in backpack 

• Grab backpack

• Off to school.

That’s much better, right?

Now, here’s the best part.  Type your lists on your computer. (Use pictures along with the words for young children who can’t read.)  Insert these lists into sheet protectors and hang them on the refrigerator.  Tie a dry erase marker to the page.  Now, the kids can check off their own “to do” lists so you aren’t having to be responsible for every step.  You are the overseer/assistant.  The children gain a sense of independence and you gain some peace.   (Each child had its own age appropriate list.)

I unfortunately cannot alleviate the stress of homework and projects that come with this time of year, but with these routines I hope I can help you organize some of the Chaos that going back-to-school can bring.

Need help? Email us at info@ChaosOrganizing.com

6 Tips for the Southern New Year (AKA Fall)

Who is ready for cooler temps, routines and getting back to busy work/school/play life balance? Yeah, not me either. BUT. with the right prep, you can be ready for all the fun (and stressful) things life will throw at you this fall. I can’t help you with Algebra tutoring, but as a Mom who has been there, I can help you set up your spaces for less stress and more success!

1. Routines: Set up routines so that the work is shared amongst the household.  In my home we had a morning routine, afternoon/afterschool routine and evening routine.  These routines are key to teaching your family how to be responsible for themselves and gives Mom’s a little extra time for a needed break. (Age appropriate goals, of course) 

2. Command Center: With all the activities that come during the fall season, a command center is a must!  Set up a command center with a calendar, space for backpacks(and soccer bags, dance bags, etc.), purses, wallets and anything else needed to get out the door quickly. Everything needed to get out the door should be put here the night before so that your morning is smooth sailing!

3. Car Organization: Time to take the beach chairs out and put the soccer chairs in!   Carpool, tailgating, camping and sports will require our cars to make the transition from summer fun to activity-full fall!  Having a trunk organizer that has an ice chest and containers for afterschool snacks, tailgating items or sports equipment helps keep it all running smoothly!  

4. Homework Station: Setting up a homework space is vital to starting the school year off successfully.  A clutter free space that holds pens, pencils, highlighters or whatever is needed to get the job done works well.  Latch boxes work well at containing supplies and a rolling cart that holds the latchboxes keeps the mess contained and transportable to any homework table available.

5. Tailgating items:  Storage Tubs filled with tailgating items can be stored in the garage or outdoor storage room for ease. Categorize and label the tubs into how they will be used.  That way the tubs with food items can be unpacked and stored properly after the tailgate while tubs containing paper and plastic goods can be put back outside.  Taking an inventory of what tubs needs to be refilled is vital during the after tailgate pack up time so that your next tailgate runs smoothly.

6. Hunting Season: Having a closet or space designated to your hunter keeps the clutter from spilling over into your other spaces. (Your bedroom, living room or guest room…yes, I live with a hunter! I get it!) Shelving with tubs (60 quart for large items and 6 quart for small items) that hold the various amounts of camo and accessories can be very helpful.  I categorize them as they are used.  Upland bird, turkey, deer, duck, etc.  We have a gun safe for any weapons and keep the ammo separate for safety reasons.  Trigger locks are great for any guns that are not in a safe. Pegboards or slatwall are terrific for storing bows and calls.

   Now that you have a few tips to get you started, make sure you check out our Back to School Amazon list for our favorite items to help you get on your way! https://www.amazon.com/shop/chaosorganizing/list/7FX706QHPK2N?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_aipsfchaosorganizing_2VA8Q1XVKTP8TC8ZR0C2

   (We do make a small commission on this but this does not affect you or the price in any way)

   or for more details on how to get organized check out the fall chapter in Southern Chaos: Organizing the Southern Home. https://www.organizingsouthernchaos.com/

   Needing 1:1 guidance? Give us a call at 225-205-6400 and lets get you on the calendar.

   We are wishing you a fabulous and successful fall season!

   Happy New Year, Y’all!

Dorm Room Organization: Maximizing Space for College Students

Heading off to college? As a professional organizer, I know dorm room organization is vital to creating a functional and comfortable living space. Here are some tips to help you maximize space and stay organized:

1. Maximize Vertical Storage: With limited floor space, making the most of vertical storage options is essential. Use over-the-door organizers, hanging shelves, and wall-mounted hooks to keep belongings off the floor and maximize usable space.

2. Invest in Multi-Functional Furniture: Look for furniture pieces that serve multiple purposes, such as a lofted bed with a built-in desk or a storage ottoman that doubles as seating. These space-saving solutions not only help maximize space in your dorm room but also enhance its comfort and functionality. Imagine the ease and relaxation you'll feel when you can study, sleep, and store your belongings all in one place.

3. Use Under-Bed Storage: Don't underestimate the potential of the space under your bed! It's a hidden treasure for dorm room organization. Invest in under-bed storage bins or drawers to store clothing, shoes, and other items you don't use frequently. This will free up valuable closet space for other essentials.

4. Keep It Clutter-Free: Clutter can quickly accumulate in a small space like a dorm room. Regularly declutter and donate items you no longer need to keep your space organized and functional. To effectively declutter, start by sorting your items into categories, such as 'keep,' 'donate,' and 'throw away.' Then, find a designated spot for each category to ensure everything has its place.

5. Personalize Your Space: remember to add personal touches to make your dorm room feel like home. Display photos, artwork, and other decor items that reflect your personality and style. However, be mindful not to overdo it and create clutter. Consider using a gallery wall or a corkboard for photos and artwork, and limit the number of decor items to maintain a clutter-free environment.

And be sure to grab these college dorm essentials!

Want the dorm room checklist? Grab it here!

Travel Organization Tips from a Baton Rouge Professional Organizer

Are you ready to embark on your next adventure? As a professional organizer based in Baton Rouge, I understand the importance of an efficient travel organization. Here are some tips to help you travel with ease:

1. Create a Packing List: Create a comprehensive list to ensure you remember all essentials before packing. Group items by category (e.g., clothing, toiletries, electronics) to streamline the packing process.

2. Invest in Packing Cubes: Packing cubes are a game-changer for maximizing suitcase space and organizing your belongings. Use different colored cubes for various items to stay organized throughout your trip and feel relieved of the packing stress.

3. Here's a tip that will make you feel efficient and organized: Roll, Don't Fold. Rolling your clothes instead of folding them can help save space in your suitcase and prevent wrinkles. This time-saving technique also makes it easier to see what's inside each clothing bundle without unpacking everything. By adopting this method, you'll feel more prepared and less rushed for your travel adventures.

4. Pack Multi-Purpose Items: Choose clothing and accessories that can serve multiple purposes to minimize the number of items you need to pack. For example, opt for versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

5. Stay Organized On the Go: Once you arrive at your destination, organize your belongings by unpacking strategically. Store clothing and accessories in dresser drawers or closet space, and designate specific areas for toiletries and electronics.

And if you need travel essentials you can check out my curated list here.

Perfecting Your Party Pantry: Tips from a Baton Rouge Professional Organizer

Hosting a memorable gathering starts with a well-organized party pantry. As a professional organizer in Baton Rouge, I've seen firsthand how a clutter-free space can elevate your entertaining game. Here are some tips to transform your party pantry into a hub of organization:

1. Assess and Declutter: Start by taking stock of your party supplies. Discard expired items and donate anything you no longer need. This step will help you create a clean slate for organizing.

2. Zone Your Space: Don't worry, dividing your party pantry into zones is simpler than it sounds. Just categorize your items into snacks, serveware, and beverages. This straightforward step will make it a breeze to find what you need when planning your next event.

3. Invest in Storage Solutions: Utilize clear bins, baskets, and shelf organizers to corral similar items together. Labeling each container will help you and your guests quickly locate essentials during gatherings.

4. Maximize Vertical Space: To maximize vertical storage space, install shelves or racks. This will free up valuable countertop real estate and ensure every inch of your pantry is utilized efficiently.

5. Maintain Regularly: Don't view this as a chore, but as a way to ensure your party pantry remains a stress-free zone. Regular decluttering and organizing will prevent clutter from accumulating and keep you prepared for impromptu gatherings. It's a small investment of time for long-term peace of mind.

Click here for curated items for you to stock your party pantry!

With these expert tips, you'll be well on your way to hosting stress-free and memorable gatherings in your Baton Rouge home. Imagine the ease and joy of entertaining when everything is in its place and easily accessible!

Need Help? We're only a phone call away!