My systems

  With Hannah starting kindergarten tomorrow and all of the organization of schedules, people, and stuff along with it I thought I'd share a few of my "systems" that help me stay sane.  I naturally am one to need organization in my life as I am a write it down, check it off the list, make it efficient, and as a plus make it cute kind of person.  So months ago I created my own chore charts and clothes charts that have made the mornings a lot less chaotic, a lot more fun, and the kids more responsible.  One of my favorite bloggers posted here about a chore chart she created for her kids.  I couldn't have agreed with her more about why she made it and how it has helped the family so much.  After she shared hers on her blog, I thought I'd share mine. 

  You can't read it so well, but basically they have small self-doable tasks written down (with pictures included to help) that they have to do before they can play.  Some examples of their chores are to put dishes away, brush hair, brush teeth, and make bed.  The circles are magnets that they move from "Not done" to "Done."  When you move the magnet to "Done" you see a star and when you get all stars, you are done with your chores and get to play (time-permitting).

 

  This is an older chart, but you can see it a little better.  This has been so helpful for me!  I no longer have to do any of this for them as they get on their chores as soon as they wake up or are done with breakfast.

 

  This chart has been a life saver!  I would fight with Hannah every day about how she couldn't wear the same thing every day.  One day, I took all of her clothes out and matched tops and bottoms and then she took pictures of them.  At the beginning of each week she has to pick out what she is going to wear each day and she HAS to wear it.  After the week, she gets to choose a new set of clothes for the new week.  This way she gets to make the decision, but it's already made come morning time.

 

  I couldn't believe my 5 year old was already telling me she had nothing to wear!  Look at just a handful of her clothes.

 

  Lastly, this is a silly one, but totally helpful.  I made personalized "Cups for the Day" coasters.  That way I was not washing 500 cups throughout the day.  One cup per day, per person.  Just put it on your coaster when you're done with it.  Whew!

 

  Maybe you don't need this kind of organization yet or maybe you do.  There are many ways you can make your day go smoother, I would suggest researching some ways others have done it and tailor it to your family.  Your family life will be much happier!