With school back in session, parents can track who's ready for school by listing morning activities on a kitchen blackboard with a place for each child to check off their completion. This also works for tracking when students arrive home in the afternoon. One glance, and you'll know who's in the house and who isn't. I like a markerboard as it's less messy, but blackboards are fun, too.
Cover small ponds or fountains with netting to keep leaves and other debris from blowing in. Bungee cords (or bricks or rocks) can secure your netting, and you will still be able to enjoy the water.
In the central-to-southern U.S., this is your last chance to apply fertilizer to your lawn. Check with local experts for the best mix for your area, but controlled-release nitrogen will provide longer-lasting results. Your grass will be better prepped to overwinter for a brighter spring burst of green!
Salt enhances the flavor of food, and it's important for our bodies, but too much can impact your blood pressure and lead to a chance of stroke and heart attack. Salt is found in many foods, so hold off on the shaker, and you will be a healthier YOU!
Old TV entertainment centers from the 90s make great toddler toy boxes. Paint and add bungee cords (or stretchy netting) along the TV opening. You now have a tidy stuffed animal zoo, and the additional shelves are great for books or smaller items!