How to Keep Your Family Organized

Most families today find that time is a precious commodity. I have a friend with three school aged children and all of them are involved in hockey during the winter, as well as either baseball or soccer in the summer.

It seems they are always off to the rink or field with extremely limited down time as a family let alone as a couple. It’s chaotic in the morning, getting everyone off for the day and just as hectic after school and work trying to complete homework, get meals ready and get everyone off to their activities. If you fall into this category of busy families here are a couple of easy tips to keep everyone organized and ready for the day.

Set out a routine

Kids need a routine as much as you do, not only so you know what is happening but it also outlines for them what is happening at what time of the day so they can make their own plans in the time that is left over. Kids will also learn about responsibility and time management and as a family you will have time set aside for meals where conversation is important to keep the family bonds strong..

Publish the schedule

Erasable wall planners, chalkboards and bulletin boards are great options for looking at what is coming up. If you have more than one child try different coloured markers for each child making it easy to identify for the child.

Let them pick their own colours. Doctor’s appointments, sports games, parties, etc. can all be recorded on the planner.

Everybody chips in

Set aside some time each week for chores. Everyone needs to buy into this and contribute to learn that they all have some responsibility for keeping the home clean and tidy. The younger ones can contribute with something as easy as picking up their own toys while the older ones may be able to help with laundry, vacuuming or doing dishes. Don’t forget the praise for a job well done to instil a sense of accomplishment.

Save time for family

Regardless of how busy you or the family are, the most important time is family time. Pick at least one time during the week where you can all be together to play a game, eat a leisurely meal or just sit and talk.

I used to have a regular scheduled time for “family meetings” where everyone was invited to discuss what was on their mind or anything that may be of interest to the others. You may not be able to resolve everything but at least all family members will feel involved and heard.

Keeping your family organized and on schedule will decrease stress and anxiety in all family members. If you need some extra assistance to set up an organized system for increased efficiency and decreased stress, contact us here for a free telephone consultation.