How to organize for remote back to school that inspires? Back to school has been a hot topic lately with how everyone is choosing to school their kids. Whether you are choosing remote learning (like I am) or just want you to be prepared in case schools are forced to go back to remote learning this post will give you a helping hand you need.
1. Clutter-free Desks
I find that if your desk or your child’s desk has fewer things on it they are able to focus more. Keep only the essentials out such as your pencils, pencil holders, sticky notes, highlighters, printers and scanners. Have a paper tray to keep track of what you still need to get done, a file box to keep your paperwork organized on completed physical assignments.
Also, if you need more space for supplies get yourself a Utility Rolling Cart from Amazon or from Michael’s Craft Store.
Lately, I shared my desk area and tips on how to keep it organized. You can check it out here: How to Design A Small Office in A Shared Space. If you are looking for some at-home classroom inspiration, you have to check out – 21 At-Home Classrooms That Will Inspire You to Make the Most of Your Space This Year from PopSugar.
2. Make your desk area as comfortable and inspiring
You are going to be at this desk for a long period of time so you should make an effort to get it comfortable and inspiring. This means that the first thing you should think about is getting a comfortable chair. You will want one that is ergonomic and best works for your body. Here are some great ergonomic chairs from Amazon.
Of course, add some inspirational quotes or a few favourite things like what you are proud of or a photo of a family member or your best friends. These things can give you a boost to your day whenever you need it.
3. Use Calendars
I strongly believe in calendars on the wall, to write down when assignments are due. For older kids, they might rather have it on their phones on which you can have it connected to your computer so that notifications are always getting to them about deadlines. There are apps and sites like Trello and Asana that are great for organizing the tasks that you need to get done.
4. Set a schedule
I love schedules because that way everyone is on the same page. Especially if you are at home with the kids, give them a sense of school-like routines if you are able to.
You can set time block-outs for your older kids where you put up when you can’t be disturbed such as the time your meetings are scheduled and how long it might take. That way they can try to resist the urge to bother you as much as they usually do. You can choose to have a family calendar so that everyone can stay connected and know what is going on each day.
FREEBIE ALERT: Grab a kid’s schedule from my free resource library and more!
5. Files on the Computer
Let’s talk about creating files on the computer. This is a perfect idea for your online documents. I made a file on my computer for all my son’s assignments that needed to be handed in just to have a record of it. It came in handy when there were technical difficulties with uploading certain documents. I was able to access the documents again to reupload it.
6. Scanning
Some assignments may require you to print and scan back to your computer. But may of you will wonder, I already have a printer, do I really need to buy a scanner too? The answer is no. You can actually scan it with your phone.
If you don’t have a scanner to upload your physical homework, you can use Microsoft OneDrive. I absolutely love using it because they have a feature where you take a photo of your paper and it will turn it into a pdf and save it for you which makes it super easy to upload to your virtual classroom.
7. Make a list
I am a huge fan of lists of what you need whether your kids are going to school or will be staying home a list is always a great thing to have so that when you are shopping online or in-store your are not forgetting anything.
If you are at home, see if you have enough pencils, markers and paper. See if you need better computer accessories or a chair that is more comfortable. Even better start yourself a small supply stash for extras just in case you run out.
Related: Back to School Shopping List & Guide
8. File Folding Clothing
This might seem off-topic but this will definitely help your kids when they are choosing clothing to wear. I started file folding and I haven’t looked back. Its basically taking your folded pile of clothes and turning it on its side. It is the easiest way to make your clothes not only look neat but also you can find what you want.
I noticed my son loves this way as well and I don’t have to worry about it getting messy because he grabs only the clothes he needs.
Final Thoughts
Remote school learning is not easy, however, with these organizing tips you can ensure that going back to school will inspire you and your kids. Think about creating a clutter-free desk space, making a list of what you need, using a calendar and schedule.
Set your remote learning ahead of time by creating file folders on your computer and uploading the OneDrive app if you don’t have a scanner. And for less stress in the morning, try to file folding your clothes to give your kids some independence.
If you need some 1 on 1 help, DM a photo of your space on Instagram or email me and I will give you my best tips to help you through it. How can I help you? Share below in the comments!
