Creating a Family Command Center
What is a family command center?
A family command center is a way to help your family communicate and stay organized. It's a wall with things like a family calendar, chore charts for kids, a place to hold the mail and other important papers, etc. - everything you need to stay organized in one central location.Â
 
Photo by @clarkandaldine
How to make a family command center
Setting up a family command center is easier than you think! The most important aspect of a family command center is that it needs to be a place where every family member will see it multiple times a day. This could be a main entryway, a mudroom, or even your kitchen.Â
Why do I need a family command center wall?Â
Anyone can benefit from a command center wall! If you're a mom who's tired of being the "brain" of the family, a command center wall can help take the load off. It's also great way to teach kids responsibility and help them practice keeping a schedule independently. Everyone needs to be on the same page with what is happening that day/week/month, and a command center is a great way to centralize that communication!Â
What do I put on a command center wall?
Your command center should have a few key items:Â
- A large calendar to help the entire family be on the same page. We offer tons of customizable options, so you're sure to find something you'll love. A few crowd-favorites include this modern acrylic calendar or this script-style framed calendar.
- Chore charts or routine boards to create accountability for responsibilities. For older kiddos, chore charts are a great option, while routine boards use stickers as easy visuals for accomplishing tasks.Â
- A place for papers, mail, etc., to be sorted and stored- this might be hanging baskets or even a customized cork board!Â
Photo by @thesimplelifeindy
How to use a command center
Once you have set up your command center, introduce it to your family! You can take them on a "tour" of its different parts and explain that this is a space for everyone to know what is going on with the family. Consistently referring everyone back to the command center will create a habit and hopefully reduce the number of questions like, "When is soccer practice?" and "When is my next appointment?" With time and practice, your family's communication will improve and the mental load will be shared among all family members.Â
