Back To School: Create A Better Morning Departure

For a lot of families, heading out the door is stressful and challenging at times.  Whether it's due to last-minute looking for misplaced keys, sports gear, or shoes or making a last stop to the bathroom, we all experience delays.

Did homework and supplies go back in the backpack? Are the return-to-school notes included?  Where’s the sports gear?  These little things add up, causing stress and delays.  Leaving late is a terrible start to anyone’s day. 

To alleviate some of these stressors, I’ve compiled a list of strategies to improve your family’s morning departures and afternoon returns.

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ASSIGN A SPACE TO EVERONE

Give each person his or her own dedicated spot.

No matter how many people your family, give everyone their own dedicated space.  That way, each person has a spot to store their jacket, shoes, bag, sports gear, etc.

Cubbies are a great option if you have the luxury of space.  For those of you that smaller spaces, utilize a bench with baskets tucked underneath, hang double hooks on a wall and a shelf to store the little extra’s.  

Label baskets or space by name.

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Get it ready the night before

For smooth mornings, get everything ready the night before.

If you really want a smooth morning, getting the bags, backpacks, and sports gear ready the night before. 

Each person should be responsible for their bag.  Make sure notes are signed, homework is complete and extra supplies for projects are ready to go for easy pick up as you head out in the morning.

Pack the work bag ahead of time.  Then it will be ready to go along with your coffee mug and water bottles for the commute.

Manage Time

Get a clock where everyone can see it or set an alarm.

PRO TIP:  Add a clock or set an alarm that acts as a countdown before you head out the door. 

As much as we try to be on time, busy families need a little help making it out the door or in the car ahead of time. 

Setting a timed alarm is like a last-minute call for a countdown to leaving.  Making sure there is time to double-check gear before heading out.             

  • Shoes on -check

  • Bags packed - check       

  • Bathroom break – check

  • Keys- check

  • Etc.

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Practice putting things away

Make this part of your daily routine.

It sounds simple but it’s not always easy to accomplish.  Each person should practice putting their stuff away DAILY. This habit is probably one of the hardest things to do.  We don’t always feel like tidying at the end of a long day.  But with a little effort, this is going to make for less stress in the morning. 

I hope these habits help you get started on creating a less stressed morning and afternoon return!

Ann Faber