5 Back-to-School Tips for Structure, Sleep, and Sanity

Can you believe it’s almost time for the kids to head back to school? As much as I love having them around, I’m definitely looking forward to getting more done during the day without the constant chorus of “Moooom!” My oldest is starting seventh grade this year. (How did I already become the parent of a middle schooler?) And after nearly twelve years of back-to-school seasons, I’ve learned which back-to-school tips work, and which don’t.

This post isn’t just about picking up new school supplies or cute lunchboxes—it’s about setting up your home to support smooth routines and reduce stress. Here are five simple ways to get your home ready for back-to-school! I also included a free morning routine printable at the bottom of this post!

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Back-to-School Tip #1: Help Kids Wind Down with a Cozy Sleep Setup

A calm morning starts with prepping the night before. That, and a good night’s sleep! Winding down can be hard after a summer of sleeping in, so here are some of my picks to help make kids’ bedrooms feel cozy and comforting.

Back-to-School Tip #2: Create a Visual “Ready to Go” Checklist Area

Mornings before school starts can be pure chaos, so I’m all about anything that helps minimize the struggle. A visual “ready to go” checklist area can be a game-changer for busy mornings. Think of it as your family’s command center—whether that’s in the mudroom, entryway, or kitchen—where backpacks, shoes, and checklists all live. Having everything in one spot helps kids see exactly what they need. Bonus: It also helps kids build independence and feel successful before they even leave the house!

Back-to-School Tip #3: Create a Snack & Lunch Packing Zone

One of my favorite time savers (and meltdown prevention methods): Having designated grab-and-go food options. It gives kids more autonomy, and it can also turn something boring into a task kids look forward to. Provide options for a fruit/veggie, a protein, something salty or sweet… however you want to build it out! The products below make it super easy for kids to pack their lunches! And the Bento-style containers reduce the need for plastic packaging. Good food is so important in helping kids (and adults!) feel their best and regulate their emotions, so why not set them up for success?

Back-to-School Tip #4: Organize a Supply Station for School and Homework Essentials

Keeping school supplies in an accessible spot encourages kids to be more independent and lightens your load. A simple bin in a cupboard or a small rolling cart can hold pencils, markers, chargers, and other daily essentials. The key is making sure your kids always know exactly where to find what they need. These multi-use organizers work for both morning routines and after-school homework time.

Back-to-School Tip #5: Set the Tone with a Mood-Boosting Entry/Exit Area

The transition of going back to school can be jarring! Telling kids that they’re loved goes a long way, but in the busyness of mornings, we don’t always remind them of it. We love using our chalkboard wall in the mudroom to write notes to each other! There are lots of other ways you can use your entryway or kitchen to anchor the energy of the day, too.

With just a few intentional changes around the house, back-to-school season can feel less chaotic and more manageable! And to make things easier, I’ve created a free printable morning routine chart. It’s available in both a pre-filled version and a blank one you can customize for your family. You can print off fresh copies each month, or just slip it into a page protector, grab a dry-erase marker, and stick it on the fridge so kids can check off tasks each day.

You got this!! 🙂

Download the PDF kids’ morning routine chart here!