School mornings can be busy, but I have found a great way to get out the door in 5 minutes or less. I have named each person in our house “Ruler of My Morning.”As“Ruler of My Morning” each person understands they are responsible for being prepared to meet the day.

This means the kids should remember that PE is Tuesday so wear sneakers. Or that Wednesday is Pajama Day. It is easier for each person to worry about one person (themselves) versus me trying to remember everything for everybody.

Sure, sometimes they forget things. So do I. And this is part of their life lessons. By being accountable they are learning that not being prepared and expecting others to do what they can do for themselves is a set-up for a not-so-good day.

Here are the "Out the Door" responsibilities according to age:

6-Year-Old

• Use bathroom before we leave (there's no potty at the bus stop!)
• Put on shoes (preferably ones that match)
• Put lunchbox, homework and agenda in backpack
• Put on backpack

7-Year-Old

• Same as 6-year-old plus…
• Check face for breakfast crumbs & put on lip balm if needed
• Make sure all papers that need a parent signature are signed

9-year-old

• Same as 7-year-old plus…
• Grab jackets for everyone off coat rack if needed

*This post on school morning tips originally appeared on my blog a few years ago, when I had two preschoolers and one elementary-aged daughter. This version has been updated now that all of my girls are in elementary school.