The After-School-Crazies Tamed

If school papers stacked up to the moon,backpacks, jackets, and shoes have taken over your home maybe you’ll like this idea, too.

I saw it on Pinterest & I immediately told my husband, "This is what I've been thinking of, but hadn't quite put it together yet.  I WANT it."  :)      

Do you remember the ultimate secret for organization? 

Right!  It's that everything must have a place and then be returned to its home (by everyone who uses it) after every use.  (There's that "every" word again.  It keeps popping up....hummmm)

So, for things like school papers that come home daily & always wind up being clutter around the house, why not create a home for them? 

That's what I love about this idea- it creates a home for essential and important things that's well-organized. 

Why I LOVE this:

•  Each child has a separate hook for his backpack that's spaced apart enough to avoid overcrowding. 
• Each child has his own file organizers to hold homework, papers, or special projects.  Now, normally I'm hesitant about these file folders because they can be HUGE clutter magnets.  So, although they look neat here, beware of the clutter bug creeping back in.
• Plenty of room for jackets to hang.  
• Bonus storage shelf under this station.  It gives an extra place to put lunch boxes, shoes underneath, a seat, or just a place to get your things together.
• A family calendar is also at the top so moms can reach it to keep events organized & keep little coloring hands far away.  
• A note station to keep everyone informed on grocery items that are out, words of encouragement, or other communication needs.

I'm putting this on my hubby's (and my) Honey-Do list  :)

Does this inspire you?  What are your solutions for the after-school-crazies?