Tips for Moms: Getting Organized for Back to School

“This post is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group® and Sharpie, but all my opinions are my own. #pmedia #StaplesBTS http://my-disclosur.es/OBsstV”

Growing up my favorite part of going back to school was getting new supplies and organizing everything. The best! Even thought I really can't wrap my brain around the fact that Matilda is starting kindergarten, I know she'll love it. I'm excited about her making new friends and learning so much. I just can't believe that she'll be away from me for so much of the day. The other part of me is looking forward to having that special one on one time with Phoebe that I had with Til. It's all so bittersweet and that girl is going to be missed by me and her little sister. There will be tears. Mom problems!

In an effort to keep my stress levels low(er), we created a "school nook" complete with family calendar, hooks for bags and coats, and an inspirational chalk board (remember the one we nabbed at the estate sale?). Sam and I have talked about using a family calendar before but have never actually done it. This calendar is for birthdays and school and any event that would affect us all. So, if I need to know that Sam has band practice, it's on there or if we have a birthday party, parent night, date night, etc then hopefully we will all be on the same page. I got a rainbow of Sharpie Ultra-Fine Markers at Staples to make writing everything down easy and fun.

I got a great tip from my good friend who is a teacher to put Matilda's name on everything. Sharpies are perfect for this. I put her name on her water bottle, back pack and lunch box (shopping guide here).

I'm also getting back into goal setting now that I will have a little more time so I'm loving using bright colors to motivate me. It just makes it more inspiring, ya know? That computer screen clearly needs some love. Ha!

We wanted to put the hooks up to keep little backpacks off the floor. Having them on their level should make that really simple (right?). My plan is to write a verse of the week on the chalkboard and sweet love notes to send them out the door with. My little sweet pea is growing up so fast. Hold me!

Do you guys have any systems in place like this? I'd love to hear what works for you to keep everyone's schedules in line!

Also, heads up! On August 10th all Sharpie fine and Ultra Fine markers and highlighters will be on sale at Staples “while supplies last.” Hope everyone has an awesome school year.

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