Back to School Organizing Ideas

"Don't you love New York in the fall?”

If you were a hopeless romantic growing up in the 90s, you’d recognize that line from the classic Rom-Com You’ve Got Mail. Joe Fox (AKA NY152, played by Tom Hanks) says to Kathleen Kelly (AKA shopgirl, played by Meg Ryan), “It makes me want to buy school supplies. I would send you a bouquet of newly sharpened pencils if I knew your name and address.” ​

Somewhere between 1998 and 2024, fall became much less romantic. If you have the lines of that iconic movie memorized, I can just about guarantee that the romance of fall was quickly replaced with the rigmarole of keeping up with school supply lists, technology requirements, and new clothes or uniforms.  

Yes, NY152, I would love a bouquet of newly sharpened pencils. Can I get one for each of my kids? I also need 9 boxes of tissues, black and red pens in a 2:1 ratio, and 3 boxes of Crayola crayons. Thanks.

Honestly, though, back-to-school is one of the best seasons. Many parents and kids alike face the challenges of a new school year with renewed vigor. The first day of school is fun, with fresh supplies, new classes, and clever pictures. 

But about 5 minutes after you kiss those sun-kissed cheeks goodbye (or send that “have-a-great-day” text), reality hits. Backpacks become bottomless pits, lunchboxes mysteriously morph into science experiments, and homework folders vanish like whispers in the wind. It’s all downhill from there, right?

Unless…

You have a stellar back-to-school organizing system. 

Back-to-school season can feel like a whirlwind of schedules, supplies, and scrambling for that lost permission slip (seriously, where did it go?). But fear not. We are here to help you conquer the back-to-school chaos with these organizing tips.

9 Back-to-School Organizing Ideas

1. Create a designated drop zone near the door with hooks for backpacks and a basket for lunchboxes (and anything else you’ll need the next day).

2. Establish a homework area with a dedicated workspace, clear storage for supplies, and a clutter-free (distraction-free) surface.

3.  Designate a drawer or shelf in the kitchen for lunchbox essentials like plasticware, water bottles, and sandwich bags.

4. Create a system for handling dirty laundry. (This may seem like household management 101, but they’ve got to practice where they put those dirty socks, or you’ll never find them in week 2!)

5. Stock a designated shelf or drawer with easy-to-grab breakfast options like cereal, granola bars, or pre-cut fruit.

6. Dedicate a file folder or basket for important documents like permission slips and upcoming school events.

7. Keep frequently worn shoes near the door to avoid last-minute scrambling.

8. Keep a family calendar in a high-traffic area. Use a whiteboard to write down school reminders and highlight special days. 
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9. Give yourself grace. You might lose a permission slip (or two), forget a class party, or send them to school without lunch. After all, you’re only human. 

If you need help organizing a drop zone or creating a paperwork system, Nashville Home Organizers is here to help. Our team of experienced organizers has navigated the highs and lows of the back-to-school season with our own families and others like you, and we'd love to bring that expertise to your home.  Schedule your free consultation today!