back-to-school tips
Starting the day on time and without stress sets you up for success. How often do you rush out the door and realize you have forgotten or can't find something you need? We've all been there; some of us more often than we'd like to admit. With back-to-school upon us, we asked some parents to provide tricks they use to ease the morning madness. Consider these ideas to help make your crazy days more delightful.
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Plan meals and activities for the week. Post every family member's events on a large calendar with color coding for each person. Review it on Sunday so you know the week's schedule and teach kids to get in the habit of checking it daily. Plan a week's worth of lunches so you have packable items in the house and you won't have to make extra trips to the store.
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Set the table, select breakfast, and pack lunches before bedtime. Let the kids take the table-setting responsibility and get creative: colorful dishes, personalized place settings, and a spot for teddy can make the morning meal more inviting. And yes, sandwiches can be made the night before.
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Lay out the complete outfit. Before bedtime have your children select what they are wearing right down to the socks and shoes. You'll avoid morning disputes about their attire, and you won't run around frantically searching for one missing shoe.
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Post an inventory check list near the door. It serves as a visual reminder to take along the necessities such as the cell phone, house key, musical instrument, and gym clothes. A white board works well to post daily lists and event reminders.
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Keep it on the way out. Organize and place the school essentials by the back door so the kids can "grab and run" on their way out. Hang their jackets and place packed backpacks so they are easy to reach when racing to catch the bus.
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Develop a routine. Kids like knowing what to expect. A regular routine which may include chores, homework, meals, and a set bedtime can help reduce chaos. Remember, consistency builds stability and a good night's sleep helps your mind stay sharp.
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warm finish for fall
Make the most of every minute with a quiet space to start or finish the day. This reading room with a carefully-crafted credenza provides a place to plan and prioritize or to escape with a good book. Generous cabinets contain and organize books, games, music collections, and family photos. The warmth and character of the Knotty Timber finish with black accents will bring the beauty of autumn's palate into your home.
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organization oasis
With shorter days and a busier schedule, this time of year seems to fly by too fast. Now is a perfect time to organize your home so you can enjoy all the splendor of this short season. Whether it's starting with the closet or getting your whole home organized and looking fall fabulous, we're here to help. pretty and practicalAn organized closet is a soothing way to wake and end each day. This elegant his-and-hers closet is feature-packed, so you can pack it full of your personal possessions. Drawers, shelves, racks, and rods keep your shirts, shoes, dresses and purses in perfect order. A built-in hutch hides or highlights your belongings beautifully.
it's all in the details Selecting scarves is simple with a pull-out rack. The individual hooks are handy for hanging belts, scarves, and necklaces. The rack pivots 90 degrees and then slides back into place keeping your accessories within reach and neatly organized.
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