BH&G
Organizing for Back to School!
It’s that time of year again: back to school. Even though my son doesn’t start until the sixth, we’re already shifting our routines and thoughts toward backpacks, school supplies, and lunchboxes. With the change in schedule comes the familiar need to refresh our organization system so mornings run more smoothly.
One of my favorite solutions is a compact wall command center that combines cork, dry-erase, chalkboard, pegboard, and magnetic surfaces. This mix of materials lets you tailor the space to a variety of tasks—displaying calendars, tacking reminders, writing quick notes, hanging keys or bags, and holding important papers. All of that function fits into a surprisingly small area on the wall, giving you a central spot for planning and everyday logistics without taking up floor space.
Here are a few practical ideas to make a command center work for a family:
- Assign zones for each child: a hook for backpacks, a small bin for shoes or lunchboxes, and a labeled pocket or clipboard for school papers and permission slips.
- Use a magnetic calendar or dry-erase board for weekly schedules, meal plans, and after-school activities so everyone can see commitments at a glance.
- Add a cork or pinboard section for artwork, reminders, and permission slip deadlines. Rotate items regularly to keep the display fresh.
- Install a small shelf or basket for essentials like sunglasses, wallet, and keys so they’re easy to grab on the way out the door.
- Keep a designated spot for chargers and tech accessories to avoid last-minute scrambling for devices before leaving the house.
Blending functional surfaces with a bit of personality—photos, favorite magnets, or a colorful memo pad—helps the command center feel like part of the home rather than a sterile task station. When the space is attractive and easy to use, kids are more likely to put things back where they belong and follow routines.
Are you excited about back-to-school routines around your house?
We’re still enjoying summer sun and lazy mornings, but planning ahead makes the transition gentler.
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PS. We recently wrapped up a couple of giveaways on The Inspired Room and the winners have been contacted. Thanks to everyone who entered!
Four DaySpring winners:
Comment: Amy in PA says I’d pick some items for our family room update—maybe a weathervane or a decorative sign! Glad to hear your daughter is feeling better.
Comment: KO says I love the Phil 4:13 piece from Urban Soul. So happy your daughter is on the mend. God is faithful!
Comment: sangeetha says the bird cage
Comment: Pretty Inspirational says I hope your daughter is fully recovered. I enjoy your blog and would love the bird cage card holder for my daughter’s room. I had a mural painted with a “Kylie’s Secret Garden” theme and it would fit perfectly. Thanks. —Melissa
One Apartment Guide winner:
Comment: Crystal says This is so exciting! I would use the prize to make two beaded lanterns for my new apartment and buy fabric to sew curtains. Woohoo!