The beginning of the school year is fast approaching. Transitions are challenging, especially if you are trying to establish new routines after summer vacation. Here are a few small steps to help you get organized for the new school year:
- Start small. If you have more than one disorganized space, the idea of getting things back in order may feel overwhelming. Start by choosing one drawer, closet, or room and organize that first. Once you’ve completed that small task, tackle the rest of your home one small area at a time.
- Designate a drop zone. Designate a home for the things you carry with you every day such as keys, wallets, purses, backpacks, briefcases, glasses, and cell phones. Make sure the drop zone is located somewhere convenient as you come in and out of your house. When you get home, put everything in this place and have your family do the same. This way you never have to look for these items again or risk forgetting them when you leave.
- Keep everything in its place. Designate a place for everything else that you own and make it a habit to return things where they belong as soon as you are done using them. To keep things even more organized, consider labeling drawers, shelves, and baskets to make finding things easier for the entire family.
- Use an online calendar or scheduling app. You can access, share, and set reminders on an online calendar for the whole family to share. Put everything on it: work, personal, school, kids’ activities, birthdays, family gatherings, follow-up reminders, holidays, and much more. This keeps all schedules in one place and at your fingertips so you will never forget while on the go.
Your Employee Assistance Program Can Help!
Your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can help you get organized and can provide you with the back-to-school support you need, including help with time management and referrals for before- and after-school care. If you would like educational resources or more information on supporting your child in school, please reach out to the EAP.
Counselors are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to help you and your family. EAP is a voluntary and confidential employee benefit available to federal employees and their dependents at no cost. For more information, contact your Component EAP or send an email to worklife@hq.dhs.gov.