The start of a new school year is the perfect time to tackle simple, family-friendly home improvement projects that get everyone organized and ready for busy days ahead. From creating clutter-free zones to setting up study spaces, these quick projects are fun ways for parents and kids to work together — and Ace Hardware of Fort Collins has everything you need to get started!

Design a Homework Headquarters

A dedicated homework area helps kids focus and keeps school supplies in one place. Pick a quiet corner and set up a small desk or table with good lighting. Add shelves or a pegboard above the desk to keep notebooks and art supplies within reach. A drawer organizer like this one from Honey-Can-Do is perfect to prevent desk drawers from getting messy.

Create a Drop Zone Area

Prevent the kids from dropping their backpacks or taking their shoes off in inconvenient areas around the house! Create a drop zone near your entryway or mudroom. Add a bench with cubbies for shoes, and place baskets underneath for sports gear or lunch bags. Command Decorative Hooks have a large selection of styles that hold strongly on a variety of surfaces but come off cleanly once you’re done needing them. Use them to hold backpacks and jackets.

Organize a Family Command Center

These days kids are busier than their parents! Keep track of everyone’s activities by setting up a family command center in a highly visible spot, like the kitchen wall. Hang a large calendar to track assignments and events. Add a corkboard or magnetic board for reminders and permission slips. This one from Quartet gives you both in one! 

Declutter and Arrange the Pantry and Snack Zone

Packing lunches and grabbing after-school snacks is easier when your pantry and refrigerator are organized. Spend an afternoon with your kids sorting through snacks, canned goods, and lunch supplies. Use clear bins or labeled baskets to group snacks, lunch box fillers, and breakfast items. Sistema has a number of options to have snacks prepped and ready to bring to games or just keep organized. They’re even safe to use in the dishwasher and microwave.

These back-to-school home projects are not only about staying organized, but they help to teach kids practical skills. Come into Ace Hardware of Fort Collins on Harmony with your kids and let them help pick out supplies. It’ll really motivate them to help and see the project through.