The kids have been back in school for a few weeks now and if you’re anything like me you are now juggling work, dinner, homework, sports practice, play date, etc. etc… We’re all more busy and strapped for time – that is why I thought when I saw a post about a family command center (a place to keep calendars, artwork, sort mail) I had to share it. You can find some great ideas posted on our Pinterest page. Here are some tips for setting up your own family command center quickly and easily!
- Location. The best location for a family command center is the high traffic area where the family usually enters the house.
- Storage. A storage bench is great near a doorway to allow folks to put their shoes, a coat rack to hang jackets and book bags. Baskets are great for holding shin guards, umbrellas, dog leash – whatever things you can save time searching for by storing by the door. Another option is to put a small desk somewhere close to entryway where you can keep folders for important documents, sort mail, or have kids do homework.
- Calendar. The wall calendar is the central piece of the family command center. I opted for a dry erase style but you could just as easily use a desk calendar and mount to wall. To keep track of each family member’s activities – pick a different color marker for each member.
- Pin board or magnet board. This is a great spot to showcase your child’s art, special events/invitations, or photos. You’re kids will enjoy having everyone see their hard work up when they come in the house.
- Wall Clock. A large wall clock will help everyone get out of the house on time.
- Command Center Binder. Another great idea I’ve come across is to use an old binder and dividers to organize papers you commonly search for – take out menus, gym class schedules, kids’ class rosters, sporting schedules, etc. This is also a great resource when you have babysitters stay they can easily access these papers.
Perhaps you’re more technically savvy. There are websites such as www.cozi.com that allow you to set up a virtual family command center sharing anything from calendars to shopping lists in real time – meaning you can add the milk you forgot to tell your husband to pick up and he’ll see it added to his list. Amazing!
Getting organized takes work – but in the end you’ll be so glad you did it!
Good luck!
*Photo courtesy from www.OrgJunkie.com
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