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Back-to-school season is here, bringing new school supplies, earlier mornings, and busy after-school schedules. While exciting, the back-to-school season can also feel overwhelming. A little planning and a few smart systems can keep the chaos at bay. Here are some simple home hacks to help your household transition smoothly:

1. Designate “Zones” in Your Home

• Create designated zones for backpacks, shoes, and other daily essentials, streamlining morning routines.

• For homework, select a quiet, distraction-free space with supplies ready to go - pencils, paper, chargers, and headphones. A dedicated space helps kids focus and cuts down on last-minute searches.

• Create a “grab-and-go” basket for school supplies, permission slips, hair supplies, etc. Anything that’s often forgotten gets a permanent home here.

  
  

2. Use a Family Command Center

• Utilize a large, visible calendar or dry-erase board in the kitchen to track practices, activities, deadlines, assignments and events.

• Color-code by family member for a quick at-a-glance schedule.

• For younger children, visual schedules and charts can aid in understanding daily tasks and promote a sense of accomplishment. 

3. Prep the Night Before to Streamline Morning Routines

• Lay out clothes and matching shoes the night before. Even better, organize a week’s worth of outfits in a hanging closet organizer to eliminate weekday wardrobe debates.

• Keep bins in the fridge labeled for snacks, fruit, and drinks. Encourage kids to “build their own” lunchbox from prepped options. This not only saves time but also teaches independence. You can even prepare or lay out breakfast items the night before to save time in the morning.

• Encourage your children to pack up their backpacks the night before to make sure they have everything they need.

If you’re thinking about selling this year, let’s have a quick chat.

No pressure—just insights on what’s happening and how you can take advantage.

Reply to this email or text me at 713-703-3316, and let’s talk.

P.S. Know someone thinking about moving in 2025? Forward this email to them.

I’d be happy to help them plan ahead and be ready when the time is right.

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Jo Anne Johnson

Team Lead, Broker Assoc.

Office: 713-703-3316

Direct: 936-444-7104

joanne@joannejohnsonreg.com