Back to School! Tips for a Successful School Year for Austin, Texas families
As summer winds down in Austin and the smell of fresh school supplies fill the air, it’s the perfect time to reset your home for a smooth school year. An organized home means calmer mornings, less stress, and more time for what matters most—family. At Reset ATX, I help Austin families declutter and create systems that last. Here are some favorite back-to-school organization tips to start the year fresh.
1. Create a “Launch Pad” by the Door
Austin mornings can be hectic—especially if you’re trying to get kids to school before the traffic on Mopac builds up. A launch pad is simply a dedicated spot near the entryway for backpacks, shoes, and sports gear. Hooks, labeled bins, and a small shelf can keep everything in one place, ready to grab and go.
2. Set Up a Homework Zone
Whether you live in a cozy Hyde Park bungalow or a modern Mueller townhouse, a clutter-free, well-lit homework space is a must. Stock it with pencils, paper, chargers, and any supplies your kids use regularly. This keeps homework from spreading across the kitchen table (and helps everyone focus).
3. Streamline School Lunch Prep
Austin’s busy parents swear by having a lunch-making station. Use a drawer or basket in the pantry for snacks, and keep lunchboxes, water bottles, and reusable containers together. Prepping a few items on the evening before school can save you a lot of time on weekday mornings.
4. Rotate Seasonal Clothing
While our Austin “fall” is still hot, cooler mornings will come. Use this time to clear out too-small clothes and make space for the next season. Donate outgrown items to local charities like Austin Pets Alive! Thrift stores or Goodwill Central Texas.
5. Add a Family Calendar
From school spirit days to soccer practice at Zilker Park, a central calendar helps keep everyone on the same page. Try color-coding by family member and placing it in a high-traffic area like the kitchen.
Getting organized before school starts isn’t just about tidying—it’s about creating a home that supports your family’s goals and routines. If you need a hand setting up systems that work for your unique space, Reset ATX is here to help. Let’s get your home school-ready so you can enjoy a calmer, more focused year ahead.