Whether you and your children are first timers or old hands, getting everyone organised for the new school year is essential. 

Each year we tell ourselves how much more organised we're going to be this school year. The kids will not lose notices, they'll have healthy lunches every day, and you'll never drop them off in your pyjamas again!  It's easier to say than do, however, so you need to set up some routines and habits to support you. You'll have a much better chance of sustained success if you do.

Uniforms
Check all the uniforms during the holidays. Have a "fashion parade‘” to make all the trying-on a bit more fun. Give yourself plenty of time to repair or replace items. Ensure all items are labelled with their full name. Don't forget to label hats — they get lost very easily.

School bag & supplies
Make sure schoolbags are still in acceptable condition and replace them if necessary. Have the kids give them a scrub to clean them up. Check that you have enough lunchboxes and water bottles, and ensure they're all labelled — lids as well as containers.

Easing into the routine
Let your kids ease their way back into the earlier nights and wake-ups by starting the regular school "sleeping" hours a good week before the first day back. If your kids sleep late during the holidays, allow them to adjust to the new wake-up times well before school starts or you'll be running late for the first week.

Setting up a starting block
Set up a place or "starting block" for the kids to get their gear ready for the next day. They should put their bags, homework, shoes, hats and anything else there the night before. It reduces morning madness and things are less likely to be lost or forgotten. A hook works well, as does a cubbyhole. The floor next to the back door can be just as good.  Train your kids (it can be done!) to unpack their bags as soon as they walk in the door and put their bag in the starting block ready to be packed later.

Paperwork system
Set up an effective system for your school paperwork. You can use folders, binders, magazine files, baskets — it's up to you. But you must ensure that you get all notices that require signing, and keep all actionable paperwork separate from your reference-only paperwork. It's best if you keep it all vertical in a file - it reduces the chance of piles 'breeding".

Kid's artwork 
De-clutter all old school artwork that you have around the house. Laminate or take photos of the very special ones and recycle the rest. Set up a system for displaying, storing and discarding artwork throughout the coming year so it doesn't get out of control.

Calendar/ schedule
Have a central place where everyone can write down their activities — a wall calendar works best. Use a different family coloured pen for each family member to improve clarity. Make sure everyone gets in the habit of checking it at least twice daily and updating it regularly.

Shopping for food
Make a list of lunchbox foods you'll need for the week, including sandwich fillings and other snacks and lunch foods. You'll find it easier to remember to get the ingredients when you shop if you always have a list of everything you might need. Start a routine of menu planning a week at a time. It saves time, money, valuable pantry space and reduces your stress levels.

Aussie Mum’s tip:
When my son started school I set up a Word document with five columns, inserted a photo of him in the correct uniform on the relevant day and listen topics like library, sport, etc.  I stuck it up so he could see what to wear and pack for the day.

Tina, mum of 2, Adelaide, SA