As parents are busy getting their kids ready for another semester at school, we’ve put together a list of the 5 best back-to-school organization ideas and tips that both parents and kids can utilise.

1. Tidy and declutter while the kids are at school

Keeping a tidy home can be difficult with the hustle and bustle of kids at home during school holidays. Don’t wear yourself out with cleaning during the break. Grab your cleaning cloths and get to work in the first few days of the return to school to get the tidying and decluttering over and done with in peace. Then, take a little ‘you’ time as a reward - you certainly deserve it.

2. Plan meals in advance and keep a visible list

Tired of hearing a chorus of, “What’s for dinner?” every day? By putting together a weekly meal planner, everyone knows what’s in store and you know what ingredients you need to buy in your weekly shop. It saves a lot of time and energy knowing what you’re going to be eating every day and not needing to stop on the way home from work or school to grab ingredients.

3. Create a visible chore chart

Keeping a chore chart in a visible place, such as on the fridge, helps the whole family keep track of what specific tasks need to be done that day. You can even create an incentive for keeping on top of the chores every week to keep the kids interested.

4. Decide on a ‘drop zone’

Using a ‘drop zone’, a space where your kids can put their bags, shoes, jackets and other belongings as they walk in the door, helps to keep clutter down around the house while encouraging a routine. You’ll always know exactly where these important items are (and the kids will know where everything is when the time comes to put their belongings away for the night or the weekend).

5. Start stocking up on school supplies

The back-to-school period is the best time of the year to stock up on school supplies. Hit the shops once the kids are back at school. You’ll find plenty of sales on stationery, school shoes, and other much-needed supplies so you’ll be extra prepared for next semester.

Getting organised when it’s back-to-school time isn’t as hard as it might seem when you put these tips to the test. All the best for the semester ahead!