Coco,

As the first day of school draws near, millions of children are gearing up for the year ahead. Whether they’re excited or feeling a bit nervous, one thing is clear: a well-prepared home can make all the difference in how smoothly the transition goes.

We’re often so busy ensuring everything else is ready that we overlook key areas in our homes that can significantly impact us. An organized and well-prepared space reduces stress, eliminates the frantic last-minute search for that one missing item, and creates a calm, focused atmosphere for everyone.

By setting the stage at home, we help our kids transition back to school and stay organized throughout the year—starting each day on a positive note. Let’s take a moment to ensure our living spaces are set up to support a successful school year for the whole family. Here are four key areas to consider:

Central Hub: Your Family's Command Center

Creating a central place in the house where everyone can see what’s going on during the week is crucial. The kitchen often serves as the heart of the home, where kids naturally gravitate, especially toward the food. But wherever your central hub is, make sure it’s in a spot everyone sees daily. This is where you can keep track of school events, extracurricular activities, and important reminders.

Tips:

• Use a large, visible calendar (a physical one like a poster board or a digital version) that everyone can access.
• Color-code activities by family member to make it easier to spot who needs to be where and when.
• Include a section for weekly goals or reminders, such as “Don’t forget to bring the permission slip!” or “Library books are due Wednesday.”

Supportive Apps/Products:

• Cozi Family Organizer: Great for managing schedules, to-do lists, and grocery lists in one place.
• TimeTree: A shared calendar app that allows the whole family to stay in sync.
• Skylight

Launch Pad: Simplify Your Mornings

One fundamental formula for ADHD brains is SIMPLE, EASY, REPEATABLE. These are the guiding principles for setting up a Launch Pad—a designated spot near the exit door where everything your child needs for school is laid out the night before.

Tips:

• Simple: Reduce the number of steps involved in getting ready. For example, have hooks at a child-friendly height for backpacks and coats and a designated shelf or shoe bin.
• Easy: Make it easy to remember and implement. Place a checklist by the door that your child can quickly scan before heading out.
• Repeatable: Ensure the system is something your child can do independently every day. The more they practice, the easier it becomes. The more consistent they are, the quicker it becomes a routine and second nature.

Ideas for Launch Pad Set-Up:

• Hooks for backpacks and coats.
• A shelf or cubby for shoes, lunchboxes, and water bottles.
• A charging station for devices like iPads or Chromebooks.

Study Space: Set the Stage for Focus

A dedicated study space is essential for homework and other school-related tasks. For ADHD kids, a well-organized, sensory-friendly environment can make all the difference.

Tips:

• Clean & De-cluttered: Keep the study area free from unnecessary items that could distract from the task at hand.
• Supplies: Keep all necessary supplies within reach—pencils, paper, rulers, etc.—so your child doesn't have to get up and search for them.
• Lighting & Sensory Tools: Good lighting is a must. Consider adding sensory tools like fidget toys, weighted blankets, or a sound machine to help your child stay focused.
• Distraction-Free Zone: Limit visual and auditory distractions. If possible, set up the study space away from high-traffic areas of the home.

Supportive Apps:

• Focus@Will: A music app designed to improve focus by playing background tracks that help ADHD brains concentrate.
• Forest: A productivity app that encourages users to stay focused by growing a virtual tree during study sessions.

Bedrooms & Closets: De-clutter and Simplify

Starting the school year with a clutter-free, organized bedroom can set a positive tone for the weeks ahead. Involve your child in the process to help them feel ownership over their space.

Tips:

• De-cluttering: Go through clothes and other belongings with your child. Sort items into three categories:
• Don’t fit: Clothes that are too small or worn out.
• Don’t like: Items your child no longer wants to wear.
• Keep: Favorites that still fit and are in good condition.
• Basic Organization: To organize the remaining items, use bins, baskets, and drawer dividers. Label everything clearly to make it easy for your child to maintain the organization. Yes, this applies to teens, too!
• Clothes Prep: Encourage your child to choose their outfit the night before to minimize morning stress. Consider setting up a “clothes station” with hooks or shelves where they can lay out the entire outfit, including shoes and accessories.

Wrapping Up: Building a Foundation for Success

As the new school year approaches, remember that creating an ADHD-friendly home is about setting your child up for success in a manageable and supportive way. By establishing a central hub, creating a seamless launch pad, designing a focused study space, and decluttering bedrooms, you’re not just organizing your home—you’re building a solid foundation for your child’s confidence and independence.

Change can be challenging, but these small, intentional steps will make the transition smoother for everyone in your family. Trust that even minor improvements can have a huge impact. Take it one day at a time, and give yourself grace as you navigate this busy season. You’ve got this!

Warmly, 

Coco & Vicky

P.S. We’d love to hear how you’re setting up your home for back-to-school! Share your tips and ideas with us—just hit reply and let us know what’s working for you.