Organizing Kids' School and Art Supplies

Kids are naturally creative and curious—which often means their school and art supplies can quickly take over your home! Keeping everything organized doesn’t have to be a constant battle. With a few simple systems, you can create a space that encourages creativity while staying neat and stress-free. Here's how The Tidy Home Nashville recommends getting started:

Step 1: Gather Everything in One Place

Start by collecting all school and art supplies from around the house. It’s easier to organize when you can see exactly what you have—and what you don’t need!

Step 2: Sort by Category

Group similar items together: crayons, markers, scissors, paper, glue, notebooks, homework supplies, etc. Sorting makes it easier to set up a system that kids can use independently.

Step 3: Choose Kid-Friendly Storage

Opt for easy-to-access bins, caddies, and drawers. Clear containers are ideal because kids can see what's inside without digging. Label each container with words or pictures depending on your child's age.

Step 4: Use an Art Cart for Easy Access

Art carts are a fantastic solution for keeping art supplies organized and mobile. Assign each shelf a category—like coloring tools, paper, or crafting essentials—so everything has its place. Plus, kids love being able to roll their supplies to wherever inspiration strikes!

Step 5: Create a Dedicated Supply Station

Designate a specific spot for school and art supplies—whether it's a cabinet, a rolling cart, or a set of drawers. Keeping everything in one place helps kids know where to find (and return!) their materials.

Step 6: Organize and Preserve Mementos

Use lidded bins to store special schoolwork, artwork, and keepsakes. Organize by school year, labeling each bin clearly. This keeps sentimental pieces protected and makes it easy to look back on memories without cluttering your everyday space.

Step 7: Rotate and Refresh

Periodically go through the supplies to toss dried-out markers, sharpen pencils, and replenish essentials. A quick refresh every few months keeps the space functional and clutter-free.

Bonus Tip: Encourage Daily Cleanup

Make clean-up part of the creative process! Setting a simple expectation—like "two minutes to tidy"—teaches kids to take care of their space and makes a big difference over time.

Final Thoughts

An organized supply station can spark more creativity, make homework time easier, and reduce daily stress. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a space that works for both kids and parents!

Need help setting up a kid-friendly organizing system? The Tidy Home Nashville would love to help you create a happy, organized home that grows with your family!