Often, kids have to hurry right from school, with no time to stop at home.

Melanie Luther, a reader in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, got tired of rushing around at the last minute to search for and pack needed supplies.

Her solution is a “Monday Bag.” This is a large tote bag she places by the front door Sunday night.

Her son and daughter are responsible for placing in the bag anything they need for Monday’s after-school activities.

They put in their clothes, folders, books and equipment. All mom has to put in the next day is after-school snacks and drinks.

“The children look forward to Sunday night because they help prepare for one of their favorite times,” says Luther.

Note: The name of the bag can change for each day. For example, a “Tuesday Bag” can be filled on Monday nights for Tuesday activities, and so on.

Copyright © Parent Institute