10 ways to reset your routine this busy season

(BPT) – As the long days of summer wind down, this is the ideal time to reset your mindset and your home to handle busier morning routines. Whether you’re a family prepping for the back-to-school season or single and just getting back into the post-summer routine, you can make the most of every morning.

Organization expert and busy mom of five Tanairi Amador shares, “I need to stay organized to make sure we have productive, easy mornings,” adding, “Preparation is key and will make for 100% smoother mornings to keep the family on track.” One of her favorite tips is setting out the kids’ clothes, shoes and backpacks the night before a school day. While packing the school lunches you’ve prepped in advance (see #6 below), have the kids brush their teeth and put their shoes on.

Here are 10 more tips to get you started:

1. Start with a healthy breakfast: Whether tackling new organization projects, restocking or just everyday mornings, a nutritious breakfast with protein is key to starting your day off right. These easy, delicious and fun recipes from Real California Milk will satisfy kids and adults, while also providing a boost of protein:

• Chocolate Superpower Smoothies Two Ways
• Magical Cereal Milk Latte with Salted Caramel Whipped Cream
• One Pan Skillet Breakfast Sandwich (ready in just 10 minutes)

“A quality breakfast is so important for kids and adults with active days ahead of them,” said Jennifer Giambroni, Vice President of Communications for the California Milk Advisory Board/Real California Milk. “The versatility and quality of dairy foods with the Real California Milk seal means they’re not just great choices for breakfast, but you’ll know they’re made with real milk sustainably produced by California dairy farm families.”

Amador is also a fan of starting with a healthy breakfast, adding, “It’s important the kids have a full tummy, so they’re ready to tackle their school day.” She incorporates a sit-down family breakfast for quality time together, whenever possible, serving her family favorite pancakes.

2. Restock the fridge and pantry once per week: Keep a running checklist of kitchen essentials, so you can restock your pantry and fridge at one time. Prioritize ingredients that are versatile for meals and snacks, such as milk, cheese, yogurt and cottage cheese, to reduce food waste. Encourage everyone in the household to mark when items are getting low — before you run out!

3. Plan ahead and don’t overdo it: Create an organization plan with a schedule to tackle one area at a time. Begin with the area that is most cluttered or in need of a functional solution. Once an area is organized, set a routine to keep it tidy in real time. Check your supplies before shopping or restocking, to avoid buying more than you need.

4. Build a digital organization library: Save your favorite inspiring social content and tips to help you organize. Keep everything in a clearly labeled folder on your computer or phone for easy access.

5. Make everything visible: Decant everything and put in easy-to-view containers. All-purpose clear bins and jars are great, but make sure to label them clearly, too — especially for the convenience of others in your household. Prioritize stackable bins and risers by putting the most-used items in an accessible spot (not the bottom). Think outside the storage box with wall racks or holders to expand capacity in closets, on doors or unused wall space.

Pro tip: Before purchasing items, measure the space to ensure the best fit.

6. Meal prep in advance: Simplify mornings by meal prepping in advance. Keep a running list of breakfast and lunch essential ingredients. To kickstart the day with valuable nutrients, prepare dishes like Chocolate Shell Cottage Cheese Overnight Oats the night before. For school lunchboxes, store ingredients in designated areas for older kids so they can help prep their own lunches before the week begins.

7. Conquer your junk drawers: Organize one drawer at a time and throw out unused items. Use small boxes to sort like items together (pens and pencils, paper clips, tape, etc.), then get dividers to keep items sorted and easy to find.

8. Create a functional sports nook: Designate an area as the sports nook with athletic gear and travel essentials for kids and parents. Give each item its own space. Use labels, hooks, vertical storage and clear bins. Don’t forget the car! Use back-of-seat organizers and clear bins for the trunk, including one just for dirty shoes/gear. Add a divided waste basket to collect trash, recyclables and compost. Get your kids in the habit of loading and unloading their own stuff. A checklist will make sure nothing is forgotten at home.

9. Designate a cabinet or closet for entertaining: Game night is an easy tradition to keep if you make a special spot for favorite board games, puzzles or arts and crafts you enjoy together. You can even include a snack drawer or shelf for kids and adults.

10. Appreciate your organized home and mornings: Take advantage of the more relaxed, stress-free start to the day and spend the time purposefully connecting with family or pets, or in mindful solitude.

Visit RealCaliforniaMilk.com/recipes for more recipe inspiration. When shopping for healthy and delicious food options for breakfast, snacks and any other meal, look for the Real California Milk seal and support local family farmers who lead the nation in sustainable dairy farming practices.

With these tips, you can enjoy this time of year as a great shift to reset, reorganize and reinvigorate your lifestyle and routines.

This sponsored article is presented by Brandpoint.