How to Set Up a Family Command Center That Keeps Everyone Organized
Creating a family command center is a fantastic way to keep everyone in your household informed, organized, and on track. Whether you have young children, teenagers, or a busy schedule full of activities, a central hub for schedules, reminders, and important information can simplify your daily routine. In this post, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to set up a family command center tailored to your home’s needs and style.
What Is a Family Command Center?
A family command center is a dedicated area in your home designed to centralize your family’s schedules, chores, important documents, and reminders. It acts as the household’s “mission control” to keep everything visible and accessible. Typically located in a high-traffic area such as the kitchen, entryway, or mudroom, it helps reduce missed appointments, forgotten tasks, and miscommunication.
Benefits of a Family Command Center
– Improves communication: Everyone knows what’s coming up and what’s expected.
– Reduces clutter: Keeps important papers and notes organized in one place.
– Boosts time management: Helps plan and prioritize daily tasks and events.
– Encourages responsibility: Kids can take part in managing their schedules and chores.
– Creates a central information hub: Leave notes or reminders for the whole family.
Step 1: Choose the Right Location
Selecting the best spot for your family command center is the first step in its success.
Ideal Locations Include:
– Kitchen wall or pantry door
– Entryway or mudroom
– Near a family desk or work area
– Hallway wall that gets regular foot traffic
Make sure the area is easily accessible to everyone in the household and has enough space for your planned components.
Step 2: Decide on the Essentials to Include
Think about what information and tools your family needs to stay organized. Here’s a list of common elements in a command center:
– Calendar: A large wall calendar or dry erase board for tracking appointments, school events, and activities.
– Message board: A chalkboard, corkboard, or magnetic board for writing reminders, to-do lists, and notes.
– Mail organizer: Slots or bins to sort incoming and outgoing mail and important documents.
– Key hooks: Hooks or a small tray to keep keys, sunglasses, and small items in one place.
– Chore chart: A visual way to assign and track household responsibilities.
– Charging station: A designated spot for charging devices like phones and tablets.
– Supply storage: Containers or baskets holding pens, markers, scissors, and envelopes.
Step 3: Gather Materials and Storage Solutions
After deciding what components you want, gather what you need to build your family command center.
Storage and Display Ideas:
– Magnetic boards or corkboards
– Dry erase calendars or planners
– Wall-mounted file holders
– Small baskets or bins
– Hooks or pegboards
– Clipboards or wall clips
– Shelves or cubbies
Choose materials that suit your home’s décor for a cohesive look, while keeping functionality in mind.
Step 4: Design and Layout
Before mounting or setting up anything permanently, plan the layout. You can sketch it out or use online tools to visualize spacing.
Tips for Layout:
– Place the calendar at eye level for easy viewing.
– Group related items together (e.g., mail organizer near key hooks).
– Keep small items in containers to avoid clutter.
– Leave space for future additions or changes.
If you have kids, involve them in the design to encourage ownership and use.
Step 5: Assemble and Install Your Command Center
With your plan in place, begin installing each component.
Installation Tips:
– Use adhesive strips for lightweight items to avoid wall damage.
– Level your boards and organizers for a neat appearance.
– Secure heavier items with appropriate anchors or screws.
– Label bins or slots to keep things organized.
– Place frequently used items within easy reach.
Step 6: Fill It with Your Family’s Information
Now it’s time to add your schedules, notes, and other details.
– Write in important dates, appointments, and deadlines on your calendar.
– Pin up reminders, chore charts, and school notices.
– Sort mail daily to keep the area tidy.
– Encourage family members to add their own notes or updates.
Step 7: Establish a Routine
A family command center is only effective if everyone uses it regularly.
Ideas to Keep It Functional:
– Check and update the calendar together weekly.
– Make a habit of sorting mail and clearing clutter daily.
– Assign a family member to keep supplies stocked.
– Use the message board for daily or weekly motivational quotes or reminders.
– Encourage kids to mark their chore completion.
Bonus Tips for Success
– Personalize the space with photos, artwork, or inspiring quotes.
– Use color coding for different family members to avoid confusion.
– Incorporate digital tools by placing a tablet station for shared calendars and apps.
– Keep the space flexible to adapt as your family’s needs change.
Conclusion
Setting up a family command center can transform the way your household manages time, tasks, and communication. By creating a central, organized space tailored to your family’s lifestyle, you reduce stress and create a more harmonious home environment. Start small, customize as you go, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from being organized together.
—
Creating your own family command center? Share your ideas and photos in the comments below!