Back-to-school season is one of the busiest times of year for my family and me.

I understand how hard back-to-school time can be for everyone, which is why I have compiled this list of excellent ideas for staying organized (and sane) amidst all the chaos. I know that you will find some awesome ideas that will work wonders for you and your family!

1. Drop Zone

Source: @theglitzypear

Do you have a drop zone at your house? In my opinion, this is a game-changing idea.

Having an area with designated spaces for backpacks, jackets, homework, and more will make the transition into the new school year so much easier.

You can get started with an organizer like this which has both hooks and shelving for easy organization.

2. Family Calendar

Source: @sandracelebrates

Coordinating differing schedules, extracurriculars, and appointments once school starts can feel like a full-time job. Having a family calendar makes everything so much easier.

A wall calendar like this is a simple way to help you keep track of everyone’s busy schedules!

3. Color Code Everything

Source: @thecurioushippo

Do you love to color-code when you organize? I am the same way!

I find that a good color-coded system makes it easier to find things. Plus, it looks pretty.

Color coding back-to-school supplies is a simple thing you can do to prepare before things get super busy!

4. Rolling Cart

Source: @qoolayfulinvites

Rolling carts are so versatile and they are a great way to organize items that you will need for back-to-school season. You can customize a rolling cart like this for your home or classroom.

These are great for storing things like markers, pens, crayons, paper, and more.

5. School Schedule

Source: @ellieavenueshop

School schedules can get super busy. Between extracurriculars, appointments, special events, spirit days, and more, it can be difficult to keep track of everything that is going on.

Family schedule boards will help you stay organized on a weekly basis. I love this smart solution!

6. Storage Bins

Source: @enid_oyo

Storage bins are a must-have in my home, especially when school starts. Small storage bins will help you keep homework and art supplies organized and easily accessible for your kiddos.

7. Clear Containers

Source: @or.der_restored

Are you a big fan of clear containers for storage? I am too because it allows me to easily and quickly locate whatever I need.

This set will give you plenty of bins to stash pencils, crayons, markers, and more!

8. Command Center

Source: @inspiringorganization

Have you ever considered creating a command center for your family? We all know how difficult it can be to coordinate multiple schedules and keep things running smoothly.

A command center with a calendar, whiteboard for reminders, and file holders for homework and other important paperwork will make it easier to keep track of everything and ensure that you stay organized all year round.

9. Storage Bins

Source: @thehomerevival

Large, stackable storage bins will help you keep toiletries, first aid supplies, and more organized. This is an especially good idea if you have a college-age kid who needs space-saving storage solutions!

10. School Memory Boxes

Source: @systemsbysusie

Do you feel terrible throwing out your child’s artwork and homework? I am the same way but find it difficult to manage the paper clutter!

Memory boxes are the perfect solution. You can easily transform a sturdy storage container into a memory box that you will cherish for years to come.

11. School Supply Cabinet

Source: @findingyourfancee

I have found that it is essential to keep all school and art supplies in one location. An organized school supply cabinet will ensure that you are easily able to locate whatever items your child needs on any given day.

12. Grab-and-Go Morning Drawer

Source: @getminimized

Are mornings a major struggle at your house? I can relate, which is why I am so obsessed with this grab-and-go morning drawer.

You can stash everyday items in one drawer for super easy access and easier, smoother mornings. This is great for haircare supplies, vitamins, hand sanitizer, and more.

13. Mail Drop Bins

Source: @simplified.pro.organizing

Back-to-school season always reminds me of how difficult it can be to deal with paperwork. From homework assignments and notes from the teacher to permission slip forms, artwork, and more, it is essential to find a good way to keep track of all the paperwork and mail bins are a great solution.

You can designate different bins by category and add labels to make it super easy for everyone (including kiddos) to keep things organized.

14. Sports Supplies Unit

Source: @operationorganization

If you feel like you are constantly searching for your kid’s sports gear, consider adding a shelving unit for all sporting items. You can place it in a convenient location like your garage or mud room to make it easy for everyone to find what they need.

I promise that this will save you both time and stress!

15. Snack/Lunch Box Zone

Source: @pitcherperfecthouse

I am obsessed with this snack/lunch box zone idea! Instead of trying to locate snacks and lunch box items in the pantry every day, why not designate a drawer or bin in the pantry and/or fridge for your go-to snack and lunch box essentials.

This will make packing lunches and grabbing snacks so much easier for you and your kids!

16. Functional Closet

Source: @simplehome.organizing

Getting ready for the school day can be a challenge for my kids. If you have the same problem at your house, functionally arranging clothes in your child’s closet will make mornings so much less chaotic.

17. Drawer Inserts

Source: @theamandasorganizing

Drawer inserts are another great way to make sure that school supplies stay organized. I love this adjustable one for desk drawers.

18. Fast Track Bin

Source: @thelighterhome

I love the idea of having a fast-track laundry bin. You can place it in your laundry room and have your kids put any must-wash clothes in it.

What a great idea for staying on top of laundry during back-to-school season!

19. Daily Outfit Bins

Source: @designsby_lei

My kids can sometimes take a long time deciding what to wear, which can make mornings a nightmare. I love this daily outfit bin idea.

You can sit down with your kiddos on Sunday evening and help them choose an outfit for every day of the week and throw them in labeled bins. This will help you enjoy hassle-free mornings.

20. Labeled Bins

Source: @sorted_in_style

Labeled bins will help keep toys, books, and supplies organized and easy to find. Labels also make it easier for little ones to put things away in the right place.

21. Teacher Toolbox Labels

Source: @teachingwithbrianabeverly

Are you as obsessed with these teacher toolbox labels as I am? They are beautiful, colorful, and so, so functional!

These will add tons of organization to any classroom.