Snacks to Schoolbags

Nina Ross
Sep 3
2 min read

Spaces that Help Kids Help Themselves

School is back in swing, and so are the early alarms, laid-out outfits, and packed lunchboxes. For us, school mornings have always been our Achilles’ heel. Last year was… well, a little rough. We often found ourselves rushed and disorganized right before walking out the door.

This year, we’re setting ourselves up for smoother mornings. My focus is on creating simple systems that encourage the kids to be more independent, tackling as much as we can the night before, and leaving space for a calm, relaxed start to the day. The goal? Walk out the door feeling happy, energized, and ready for whatever the day brings.

A Morning Launchpad

Our entryway has become our morning launchpad. Backpacks are hung up, shoes are picked out and ready, and the kids can simply grab and go. My purse and keys have a dedicated spot, so I’m never scrambling to find them. This one small system has taken a surprising amount of stress out of our mornings.

Lunch Solutions

Make lunchbox items accessible

Clear bins in the refrigerator keep food organized and easy to grab. We separate ours into simple categories (fruits, veggies, dairy, and protein) so packing a lunch is quick and stress-free. The kids can even pack their own lunches by choosing one or two items from each bin. It gives them independence, a sense of responsibility, and a little freedom to make their own choices.

Cabinets and Pantry

The same system works for the pantry (or, in our case, a cabinet). Snacks go into bins for easy viewing, and water bottles are stored where little hands can reach them. Everything has its place, making it simple for the kids to grab what they need without help.