Creating a family command center is a simple yet effective way to keep your household running smoothly. It serves as a central hub where everyone can access important information, stay on top of appointments, chore assignments, and communicate easily. Whether you have young children, teenagers, or multiple adults in your home, a well-designed family command center can reduce stress and improve daily routines.
In this post, we’ll walk you through the steps to set up your own family command center at home, with tips on what to include and how to customize it to your family’s unique needs.
What is a Family Command Center?
A family command center is a designated area in your home that helps organize schedules, to-do lists, mail, keys, and other essentials all in one place. It’s often found in a high-traffic area like the kitchen, entryway, or mudroom, making it easy for all family members to check and update information daily.
Benefits of a Family Command Center
– Improves communication: Keeps everyone informed about schedules, events, and chores.
– Reduces clutter: Centralizes papers and items you need daily.
– Saves time: Quickly see who is responsible for what and upcoming activities.
– Encourages teamwork: Involves everyone in household management.
Step 1: Choose the Right Location
The best location for your family command center is somewhere everyone frequently passes through or spends time. Common spots include:
– Kitchen wall or pantry door
– Entryway or hallway near the front door
– Mudroom or laundry room
Make sure there’s enough space for your setup and that it’s easily accessible for every family member.
Step 2: Decide on Your Command Center Components
A command center can be as simple or elaborate as you like. Here are some common components you might include:
Calendars and Schedules
A family calendar is essential. You can choose a traditional paper calendar, a whiteboard, or even a chalkboard where you write down events, appointments, school activities, and sports practices. Color-coding by family member adds clarity.
Message Board
Use a cork board, magnetic board, or dry-erase board to leave reminders, notes, or motivational quotes. This helps keep communication open and visible.
Mail and Paper Organizer
A set of wall-mounted file organizers or baskets helps manage incoming and outgoing mail, permission slips, bills, and important documents, reducing piles of clutter.
Chore Chart
Assign chores and track completion with a chore chart that can be updated weekly. This promotes responsibility and creates accountability.
Key Hooks and Charging Station
Add hooks for keys, bags, and masks. You can also include a designated spot for charging phones or tablets to keep devices in one place.
Supplies and Tools
Keep pens, markers, scissors, tape, sticky notes, and other small tools nearby in cups or containers to make it easy to jot down notes or hang things up.
Step 3: Gather Materials and Supplies
Once you know what components you want, gather the necessary supplies. Some must-haves might include:
– Wall calendar or large whiteboard
– Cork board or magnetic board
– File organizers or wall pockets
– Hooks or small shelves
– Bins or small containers for supplies
– Labels or stickers for better organization
– Command strips or nails for mounting
Many of these can be found at your local office supply store or online.
Step 4: Design and Install Your Command Center
Think about the layout: place frequently used items (calendar, message board) at eye level. Arrange mail slots and chore charts nearby. Use labels or color codes for easy identification.
Consider these tips for installation:
– Use level and measuring tape to ensure everything is straight and evenly spaced.
– Mount hooks and organizers securely to support weight.
– If using magnetic boards, place metal strips or magnets for easy pinning.
– Make sure writing surfaces are easy to write on and wipe clean.
Step 5: Involve Your Family
Introduce the command center to your family. Show everyone how to use each section. Encourage family members to update their schedules, check chores, and leave notes.
Create a routine: for example, have a quick family meeting near the command center each morning or evening to review plans. This helps keep everyone engaged and accountable.
Step 6: Maintain Your Command Center
Keep your command center effective by periodically tidying up:
– Remove outdated papers and notes.
– Update calendars and chore charts regularly.
– Replace worn-out markers or supplies.
– Reassess if layout or supplies need tweaking to better serve your family.
Creative Ideas to Personalize Your Command Center
– Add family photos or artwork for a personal touch.
– Use chalkboard paint on a wall section for a larger writing area.
– Incorporate inspirational quotes or positive affirmations.
– Create a pocket for each family member for individual mail or notes.
– Use a digital screen or tablet for shared digital calendars.
Final Thoughts
Setting up a family command center is a practical and fun way to bring order to a busy household. With just a little planning and creativity, you can create a space that fosters communication, organization, and teamwork. Start small, keep it simple, and customize as your family’s needs evolve.
Ready to get started? Find a spot, gather your supplies, and watch your family’s daily routine become smoother and less stressful!
