How to organize your life

We painted a large square using chalkboard paint by our front door and drew a calendar on it. Everyone’s schedule gets written in different-coloured chalk. — Bethany Hogan, Seaforth, NS

My husband and I use a shared calendar on our smartphones. Every appointment and activity goes in so we’re always in sync. — Heather Cox, Georgetown, Ont.

We use a calendar app called Cozi that syncs everyone’s separate calendars. It’s also great for adding in carpooling schedules, which I can share with everyone else on their digital calendars. It’s been a lifesaver multiple times. — Sarah Beynon Giles, Langenburg, Sask.

Read more: How do you organize your daily schedule?>

We do it old school at our house: I use a big calendar and everyone gets their own coloured pen. — Christine Hayes, Petitcodiac, NB

We use a fridge calendar that has enough room for everyone’s schedules, plus, we mark down milestones like lost teeth and funny things the kids say. I love keeping them and looking back at everything we’ve done. — Carmen Swartz, Timmins, Ont.

We keep our iCloud calendars synced with the grandparents’, so all birthdays, recitals and games are on everyone’s radar, and I don’t have to worry about who I’ve told and who I haven’t. — Chanell Vekasi, Edmonton

We use the mirror at the front of the house. I draw a monthly and weekly calendar in marker that has everyone’s activities and work schedules. It even includes our meal plans. — Jessica Sedgewick, Guelph, Ont.

I spend time on New Year’s Day transferring birthdays, holidays and anniversaries to the new calendar. I keep everything colour-coded, and the kids love to help out by adding the special stickers that come with the calendar. — Julie Knoblauch Heimrich, Exeter, Ont.

Read more: Organize your week in an hour or less>

Are you kidding? I lost all brainpower after my third child and none of the tricks or tools have stuck. So while we try to remember all the Scout meetings, doctor appointments and even parent-teacher interviews, at times they just get missed. But it’s OK because the kids don’t usually mind; I’m not perfect and that’s all right with me. Sometimes not having a brain just lets you sit back and relax. — Shantell Risby, Whitehorse

I have a calendar and a great partnership with my spouse! — Kelly Gaudette, Ajax, Ont.

Next up: Rainy days! What are your favourite indoor activities for rainy days? Email us your ideas at editors@todaysparent.com with your name, town and province.

A version of this article appeared in our April 2014 issue with the headline "Pencil it in," p. 18.