Running a household is no easy feat. It can feel overwhelming to keep up with everyone’s schedules, bills, cleaning, etc.
That’s why every home needs a command center: a centralized hub for staying organized and on top of all your responsibilities.
Here’s how to set up your own family command center:
1. Choose The Best Location
The key to creating an effective command center is to choose a convenient, high-traffic area in your home. The key to choosing the right location is to place your family command center where you’ll see it every day.
Popular locations include:
- ⬥ Kitchen: The “heart of the home” is a great option as it’s where everyone gathers at least once a day.
- ⬥ Entryway: When you walk in the door, the first thing you’ll see is your command center, which means it won’t be another organization tip that gets forgotten or half-used.
- ⬥ Living Room: Put your command center in a place where everyone will see it and be able to use it.
2. Essential Pieces
You’ll need some essential items to make your family command center work well for you and your family. Grab the following items once you’ve chosen where your command center will live.:
- ⬥ Calendar: Make your calendar a big one with plenty of space to add all your appointments, activities, and deadlines.
- ⬥ Chalkboard or Whiteboard: Works great for messages, reminders, or motivational quotes.
- ⬥ Corkboard or Magnet Board: Pin up your children’s artwork, post invitations, and that surprise bill you don’t want to forget. (Note: to save space, find a whiteboard with a corkboard or magnet board).
- ⬥ Folders or Baskets are good spots for organizing paperwork that needs your attention, such as school forms, receipts for your accountant, and the day’s mail.
- ⬥ Hooks are perfect for things you use every day, such as purses, keys, dog leashes, etc.
- ⬥ Charging Station: The family command center is the perfect place to corral all of your electronic devices…no more dead batteries!
3. Personalize Your Space
Make it work for you! Use file folders, colored bins, and hanging racks for organization. Add flair with photos and decor to personalize your command center.
Here are some ideas:
- ⬥ Color Scheme: Opt for colors that complement your home’s decor.
- ⬥ Labels: Label everything clearly to make organization a breeze.
- ⬥ Decorative Elements: To make the space feel more personal, add family photos, inspirational quotes, or small plants.
- ⬥ Kids’ Corner: Add a designated area to showcase your kids’ artwork or accomplishments.
4. Maintaining Your Family Command Center
If you struggle with organization, you know that keeping things straight is the most challenging part.
Aside from clear labeling, set up a routine to:
- ⬥ go through papers
- ⬥ check the calendar(s)
- ⬥ reset to its original condition or
- ⬥ adjust the space based on how it’s going
For example, make adjustments if you don’t have enough room for what you want to put in your command center or remove items you’d prefer to move elsewhere.
Help build a habit around your command center by adding a reminder to your digital calendar. Get the whole family involved by assigning simple chores like filing or hole-punching. You can even make it a fun bonding activity!
Here are some tips to keep it tidy:
- ⬥ Regular Updates: Make it a habit to update the calendar and boards regularly.
- ⬥ Weekly Clean-Up: Take just a few minutes every week to clear out clutter and reorganize what’s out of place.
- ⬥ Family Meetings: Hold brief family meetings to discuss upcoming events and ensure everyone is informed and on the same page.
5. Digital Integration
For busy families, integrating some of your family command center information will ensure that nothing gets missed.
Explore options like a shared family calendar app, to-do list software, or an electronic home manager. Look for tools that let you sync your devices so you’re always on top of your schedule and your to-do list.
Creating a family command center is a simple yet effective way to bring order to the chaos of family life.
By choosing the best place, putting together what you need to manage the most, and making it beautiful and functional, you’ll have a command center that works for everyone in the family.
What Every Mom Needs a Great Organized Command Center
