Back-to-School, Back-to-Home: How We Create Routines That Work

September in Edmonds feels like a season of fresh beginnings. The long summer days shift into cooler mornings, and our family rhythms begin to center around school drop-offs, after-school snacks, and cozy evenings at home.

This year both of our boys are off to preschool, which means our mornings start with breakfast, packing lunches, and making sure shoes, backpacks, and jackets are all in place before heading out the door. By the afternoon, our routines bring us right back home again — ready to reset for the next day.

Here are a few simple routines we’ve built into our home life that keep things running smoothly:

• A landing zone near the door for backpacks, coats, and shoes keeps the morning rush calmer. We’re in the midst of renovating our mudroom!

• Emptying lunch boxes after school has become a new family habit — the boys unpack their things as soon as we get home, which helps us stay organized and ready for the next day. This also keeps us from forgetting food over the weekend (yuck!).

• A quiet corner for play or reading gives everyone space to wind down after busy mornings.

• Family dinners around the table are where we reconnect and share stories about the day.

What we’ve learned is that the right home makes these rhythms easier to live out. In Edmonds, family-friendly neighborhoods and homes with thoughtful layouts can truly support the season you’re in. Whether it’s an extra playroom, a mudroom for all the gear, or simply a welcoming kitchen for family meals, your home should make daily routines feel smoother, not harder.

As we step into the school year, we’re grateful for the spaces in our home that keep life flowing — backpacks by the door, lunch boxes ready for tomorrow, and cozy evenings spent together.

If you’re in Edmonds and starting to wonder if your home fits your family’s rhythms, we’d love to help you explore the possibilities. From preschool drop-offs to family dinners, your home should grow with you.