September 20, 2023

Hey, North York families! With the Back-to-School Cleaning season right around the corner, it’s time to get our homes organized and ready for the new academic year. Who doesn’t love a fresh start? Let’s dive into some top tips for back-to-school cleaning that’ll make your life a whole lot easier. Trust me, a little bit of tidying up now can make a huge difference! Declutter Those Desks and Study Areas Starting with the desks and study areas – these spots are essential for your kids’ learning and creativity. During the summer break, it’s all too common for these spaces to get cluttered with a mishmash of items. Maybe there’s a pile of art supplies from that impromptu crafting session, or stacks of magazines and books from leisurely summer reading. Whatever it is, now’s the time to sort it out. Begin by going through everything on the desk. You’ll be amazed at how much stuff accumulates over time. Old papers that are no longer needed? Recycle them! Books that have been read and won’t be revisited? Consider donating them to your local library or a charity. This not only clears space but also contributes to a good cause. Let’s talk about those stationery supplies – pens, pencils, highlighters, you name it. Organizing these can be surprisingly satisfying. Use drawers, holders, or even DIY containers to keep everything in place. A well-arranged desk can really boost productivity and focus. It’s about creating a space that feels inviting and stimulating for those study sessions and homework time. But it’s not just about functionality. A tidy desk also has a psychological effect. There’s a certain joy and clarity that comes from an organized space. It signals to your brain that it’s time to get down to business, minus the distractions. Plus, let’s be honest, a neat and tidy desk just looks and feels great! Refresh the Kids’ Bedrooms Refreshing the kids’ bedrooms is like hitting the reset button – it’s not just about cleanliness, it’s about starting the school year with a clear, organized space. It’s true, kids’ rooms have a way of turning into a delightful jumble of toys, clothes, and who-knows-what-else. But let’s turn this clean-up into an opportunity for a fresh, organized start. Set aside a day dedicated to deep-cleaning these personal havens. It’s amazing what a thorough dusting can do. Get into all the nooks and crannies, behind the bed, under the desk, and don’t forget those often overlooked shelves. This isn’t just about removing dust; it’s about creating a healthier space for your kids to sleep, play, and study. Next up, vacuuming. It’s time to tackle the floor – and yes, that means venturing under the bed too! Vacuuming is crucial for removing dirt and allergens that accumulate in carpets or on hardwood floors. This step is especially important for kids with allergies or asthma. A clean floor also means a safer play area, free from small objects that might have gone unnoticed. Now, let’s talk about washing bedding. This is a must! Clean sheets, pillowcases, and blankets don’t just smell great; they also contribute to better sleep. And good sleep is a big deal, especially for school-aged children. It’s essential for their growth, health, and learning. Plus, there’s nothing like the feeling of climbing into a bed with fresh, clean sheets.     Tackle the Closets Tackling the closets is like embarking on a treasure hunt – you never know what you might find! This task is all about making way for the new by clearing out the old. As the seasons change and our kids grow, their closets can become a mismatched collection of various sizes and styles. Now’s the perfect time to address this and make your mornings smoother. Start by pulling everything out of the closet. It might seem a bit overwhelming at first, but this allows you to really see what’s there and what needs to go. Create different piles – one for keeping, one for donating, and maybe even one for those ‘maybe’ items. When it comes to clothes your kids have outgrown, consider donating them. There are many families who would appreciate these gently used items, and it’s a great way to give back to the community. Then, assess what’s needed for the upcoming year. This is especially important if your kids wear uniforms to school. Make sure everything fits properly and is in good condition. If new items are needed, now you know exactly what to shop for, avoiding unnecessary purchases. For everyday wear, think about the practicalities of your kids’ weekly activities. Do they need more sports gear? Are there enough warm layers for the cooler months? Organizing clothes by type or even by day of the week can be a big time-saver during those busy school mornings. Create a Dedicated Homework Station Creating a dedicated homework station is like setting the stage for your kids’ academic success. It’s a simple yet impactful way to encourage focus and organization in their daily routine. You don’t need an elaborate setup; even a small, well-thought-out space can do wonders for their study habits. Start by finding the right spot. It could be a quiet corner in their bedroom, a space in the living room, or even a section of the dining table. The key is to choose a place with minimal distractions and ample light. A well-lit area not only reduces eye strain but also helps to keep them alert and focused. Let’s talk about the setup. A comfortable chair and a table or desk at the right height are essential. You want your child to be comfortable, but not so cozy that they’re tempted to nap! Ergonomics are important, especially as they’ll spend significant time here. Stocking the station with the necessary supplies is the next step. Pencils, erasers, paper, a ruler, and maybe some colored markers or highlighters – these are the basics. Having everything in one place means no more last-minute scrambles to find a pen or a