Moving into a newly built home is an exciting time filled with possibilities. For A&G Residential’s homeowners, settling in is a bit easier with endless storage options included. And, as the back-to-school season appears around the corner, those organizational options become essential. Proper organization helps streamline daily routines while creating the perfect environment for learning and productivity. Where to begin? Tap into creativity and add a dash of flexibility!

• Set up a Homework Station: A dedicated homework area should be quiet, well-lit, and free from distractions. For those with younger children, it should also be within sight as help may be needed to maintain focus. Your homework station should be equipped with essential supplies such as pencils, pens, notebooks, etc., and a place to store them to keep the desk clutter-free. Purchase a comfortable, size-appropriate chair to avoid fatigue and encourage good posture.
• Inventory School Supplies: While unpacking your new home, you may have taken the opportunity to organize school supplies. If not, now is the time to collect all that you have and sort them by category. Clear bins are a great option for keeping supplies easily accessible while also tucked away. Purchase an inexpensive label maker (kids love these!) so that each bin can be labeled clearly. If your homework station is used for other things throughout the day, invest in a rolling storage caddy to house supplies.
• Family Command Center: If you haven’t already, designate a central area to serve as the family command center. This may be just inside the garage, in the kitchen, or along an entryway. Install a large family calendar to keep track of everyone’s schedules, including parents. Hang a bulletin board for important notes, a whiteboard for quick reminders, and a hanging file for school documents.
• Designate a Drop Zone: The drop zone is different than the command center as it will house all the physical items needed for success throughout the day such as backpacks, shoes, or jackets. Use hooks, cubbies, or baskets to keep everything off the floor and entryways tidy. A bonus of a drop zone? It’s also a quick pick-up zone! Instead of tracking down a misplaced lunchbox or mittens, items have a home from which they can quickly be grabbed on the way back out the door.
• Easy Fueling: Nothing says “back-to-school” like a child announcing their hunger the moment they return home for the day. Set up a snack station with healthy options that kids can access independently in both the pantry and refrigerator. Use clear containers for easy accessibility! You might also consider creating a weekly meal plan to streamline grocery shopping and avoid that second daily statement, “What’s for dinner?!?”
• Down Time: Because life can quickly become chaotic during the school year, it is important to build in space for downtime for all family members. Many opt to create a reading and relaxing nook meant to encourage unwinding. This might include an oversized bean bag chair tucked into a corner or a hammock nestled between a few shade trees. Books, coloring pads, or a journal are all great additions to this space but steer clear of allowing electronics into this area.
• Establishing a Routine: Summer is all about spontaneity but the return to school requires a return to routines. Don’t wait until the bus arrives to do this! A week or so before that first day of school, switch to a school-friendly daily cadence. Spend a few minutes each evening talking about what items will be needed the next day. Practice creating an evening checklist to reference as everyone gets ready in the morning. Start setting out clothes for the following day to avoid morning chaos. A good night’s sleep is critical for academic success–switch to “school sleep hours” at least a week before the first day. This means a consistent bedtime and wake-up time (yes, this may be met with a few grumbles).

As you prepare your new home for the back-to-school switch, make sure all family members are involved in the organizational prep work above. This encourages each person to feel invested and often builds lifelong habits. For younger children, sorting school supplies is a perfect task. For older children, cleaning out bedroom closets is a great place to start. Organization is not a one-and-done task so plan on making adjustments as needed. Be flexible and creative!

A&G Residential Homes are built in fabulous neighborhoods with access to excellent schools. Our floorplans are designed with convenience in mind, and a variety of storage options are included. To set the stage for a successful academic year, organize early and involve the whole family!

Are you ready for a fresh start to the new school year? Reach out to the team at A&G Residential Homes today and find the perfect floor plan to get started.