Can you believe summer break is over and back-to-school season is in full force? The transition can be hectic, but setting up an organized homework station and paper management system will save your sanity!
This year, I refreshed my kids’ study space and put a system in place to tackle the daily influx of school papers. Even if the school year has already started, keep reading for three easy organization systems that will make your home run smoother.
1. Set Up a Designated Study Zone


Having a dedicated homework space helps kids stay focused and organized. About eight years ago, I repurposed a china cabinet by removing the glass doors, reinforcing the shelves, and painting it white. Last year, it became our homework station, and it’s been a game-changer!
To prep for the new school year, I:
โ Decluttered broken or outdated supplies
โ Restocked essentials like pencils, erasers, and notebooks
โ Rearranged items for easy access for my 1st and 6th graders
๐น Smart Storage Solutions:
- Flashcards are neatly stored in a container.
- Small supplies (stickers, paperclips, etc.) are sorted in drawer organizers.
- Books & activity workbooks are stored in IKEA magazine holders for easy access.
- Repurposed a silverware caddy for markers and colored pens.
Keeping everything labeled and within reach means less mess and more productivity!
2. Create a Display Area for Artwork & School Papers

Every child loves showcasing their artwork, but without a system, it can turn into clutter! Designate a space to display their latest masterpieces while keeping school notices handy.
โ How to Manage School Papers & Artwork:
- Use a rotating display system (swap out artwork regularly).
- Store special pieces in a keepsake bin (I offer these here on the website!).
- Review and declutter school papers at the end of each semester to keep only the best ones.
I also added a corkboard for:
โ Progress reports
โ Sight words, AR reading goals, or math facts
โ Important notes from teachers
Now, when my son claims he has no homework, we know exactly what skills to review!
3. Set Up a Command Center & Mommy Inbox

Managing school paperwork is overwhelming, especially when forms get lost in the chaos. A family command center will keep everything in one place.
โ
My Command Center Includes:
โ Backpack hooks to avoid last-minute scrambles
โ A shoe bench for easy exits in the morning
โ A family calendar for school events & due dates
โ A corkboard for important flyers (library hours, free museum days, emergency contacts)
โญ The Game-Changer: The Mommy Inbox
This year, I added a Mommy Inbox to help manage school papers efficiently.
๐น How It Works:
- Kids drop in any school forms or permission slips.
- I check it daily and either:
- Pin activity flyers to the command center
- Add event dates to our family calendar
- Recycle unnecessary papers
- Sign and return forms to their backpacks
Now, I never miss an important notice, and my kids know exactly where to put school forms!
Need inspiration: I’ve pinned Command Center Inspiration for you here.ย
Simplify Back-to-School Chaos with These Systems!
With these three simple organization systems, you can create a stress-free homework station and keep school papers under control.
Need to declutter their rooms and prep their wardrobes for school? Check-out this post for tips and a free shopping printable. โก๏ธย Back-to-School Prep: 3 Quick Tasks to Make Tomorrow Stress-Free!
Whatโs your favorite back-to-school organization tip? Drop a comment below and share your ideas! ๐
1 Comment
Great post and wonderful ideas Elva! Thanks for the inspiration ๐