School Days

Can someone tell me where the month of August went? I can't believe that in some areas kids are back in school or will be in a week's time. When you're doing your back-to-school shopping consider where these items are going to live in your house. I very often work with clients whose children walk in the door and plop their backpacks, coats, shoes, etc., in doorways, on the on the living room floor amongst other inconvenient spots. This creates not only a hazard for someone to trip over and get hurt, but it really doesn't teach children about respecting their belongings.


So here's my tip to start the school year and keep the other areas of your house clear: designate a practical area where children can hang or stow their items at home after school. I know, I can hear the eyes of parents rolling...It will take some time for them to adapt but if you keep on them they will eventually get it — they need to not only respect their things but also the common areas of the house. I'd rather they put everything in their room even if it's a mess because you can close the door but still retain a serene environment in the rest of the house without the kids monopolizing it. Check out places like Target www.target.com or Pottery Barn Kids www.potterybarnkids.com for ideas. Once children know that their books, backpacks, etc., have a home, they might even stop asking you where everything is which would give you more time for that extra cup of coffee as you send them off in the morning.

Appointments are available for September to help with other ways to make back-to-school painless. In the meantime I'd love to hear from you on ways you handle the school year cycle.

All Rights Reserved. Rosemary Flannery 2010