24 Tips to Get Your Kids to School on Time

So, how is the morning routine going for you so far? We know that getting kids out the door for school on time is one of mom's biggest challenges. That's why we're serious about finding everyday solutions to help you improve your mornings. We reached out to our SavvyMom team of writers, editors and bloggers to find out what works for them in the am.

I make sure to get up early and workout at 6 am—before the kids are awake. I love coming home to an empty dishwasher and a set breakfast table—which I did the night before.

My husband has never been late for anything in his life, while I am late for everything. So I decided to delegate the morning responsibilities to him to ensure my kids' timely arrival to school every day.

The clocks on the main floor are set 10 minutes fast. I also have a specific 'time' we have to be out the door, so I know I always have that 10 minute window.

Before the boys come down the stairs they must complete T.B.C.: T = teeth (brush them!) B = bed (make it!) C = clothes (put them on!)

We post a list of reminders on our bulletin board in our dining room. That way, we all have a clear reminder of what is expected of everyone. There isn't anything too revolutionary in our routine. But, by everyone agreeing and cooperating, I'm not constantly saying, 'Did you brush your hair?' or 'Did you pick out tomorrow's outfit?' It makes the school year run a little more smoothly.

If I know I'm going to be pressed for time, I don't check my email until I get back from dropping my daughter off at school. There's always some crisis, and I know I'm easily distracted, so I leave it until I'm home and can address the email properly.

We installed hooks in our closet that are at the girls' height so they can access their own coats and backpacks when it's time to get ready.

I buy lunch staples in bulk when they're on sale, so it saves money and time. I also have lots of fruit, yogurt and cheese strings 'ready to go' in my fridge, and individually wrapped homemade treats in my freezer.

I make coffee the night before and set the timer to go off early, so my caffeine fix is always ready as soon as I wake up.

I recommend a chore contract so the kids are committed to their responsibilities. They know exactly what needs to be done in order to get their allowance at the end of the week. It helps to avoid fighting about making beds, brushing teeth, feeding the dog and putting dirty clothes in the basket.

I give my twins specific jobs in the morning so they stay focused and don't argue. One is in charge of choosing snacks and the other helps prep lunches. Being involved in the food prep also helps ensure that they eat what they are given.

Put together a basket or bin of 'busy work' to keep the kids occupied while you make coffee, their breakfast, etc. Fill a tub with worksheets (can you tell I was an elementary school teacher?), flashcards, a sketch pad, homework to review, plus one fun thing, such as a comic book or sticker book. After 15 minutes of 'work' they're allowed to do their fun activity. By then breakfast will be ready, kids will be eating quietly-ish and mom will be almost awake.

On the days I don't work out, I'll shower and blow out my hair before bed—that saves at least half an hour in the morning.

Don't underestimate packing lunches the night before. It can be a huge time saver in the morning. Make fresh breakfasts to-go, like smoothies—they're always a hit.

Our oldest daughter has been tasked with the job of checking the weather each morning. She uses the iPad to check the temperature and precipitation for the day, then lays out everyone's outerwear as required. When it's time to rush out the door, everyone just throws on what's ready to go.

Socks are set inside the shoes (as those are always the problematic item to find) and shoes are set right beside the backpack.

I like to bake healthy muffins in huge batches and freeze them for quick breakfasts on-the-go. They are much faster to eat than cereal and easier to sneak in fruit and veg. I also always wake up 30 minutes before the kids so I can drink my coffee.

Before school, we allow no electronics—no TV, no music, no computer. This has been essential in making sure the girls aren't distracted in their morning routine.

Set the breakfast table the night before. It helps to make sure we always eat breakfast as a family. My husband often works late, so we like to ensure that we all have at least one meal a day together.

Making delicious breakfasts that your kids will want to eat can go along way. One that my kids enjoy is this Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie recipe. It's a meal-in-one.

My kids set their own alarm clocks, depending on the time required for readiness, which varies for each child.

For my son with ADHD and ODD, consistency and structure are paramount. First comes coffee for me, then his breakfast. No electronics or any other distractions are allowed that will take him off course of the morning routine.

Find out from this nutritionist why it's important to eat a healthy breakfast.

Who said I get the kids to school on time? I get the kids to put their lunch bags in their backpacks themselves and fill up their own water bottles. I drive instead of walking for 15 minutes—sad, but true. It's not eco-friendly, but I recycle and compost. I don't shower or put on makeup and I throw on whatever clothes I can find...I'm probably not a good person to ask.