The Foundations of an Organized Family: Choosing and Implementing Your System | Parental Leadership File

By Dominique Bernèche, founder of Les Belles Combines and Octave

You are convinced by the parent leader approach, but where do you actually start? How do you choose the system that will suit your family? Here is your practical guide to laying the foundations for an effective and sustainable family organization.

Beyond the simple task board

You can try all the magnetic boards on the market, but it is by understanding that an organizational system goes far beyond a simple support that you will finally find your rhythm. An effective system is above all a method of communication and coordination that unites the whole family towards a common goal.

The three fundamental pillars of an effective system

1. Visibility: the cornerstone of family organization

Visibility isn’t just about display. It’s about making sure every member of the family can access and understand the information they need:

• Information accessible to all : Each member of the family must be able to easily consult the information that concerns them, whether it is the tasks to be accomplished, the upcoming events or the routines to follow.

• Strategic location in the home : The system should be placed in a location frequented by everyone. The kitchen or entryway are often ideal locations as they are natural passage areas.

• Age-appropriate format : Younger children need pictures and pictograms, while older children can handle more complex text and lists.

2. Simplicity: Key to Long-Term Adoption

A simple system will be more easily adopted and maintained over time:

• Clear instructions : Each family member should understand exactly what to do, when and how. Instructions should be given in a positive and precise manner.

• Intuitive use : The system should be able to be used without the need to constantly consult an instruction manual. Daily actions should be self-evident.

• Easy maintenance : The easier the system is to maintain, the more likely it is to last. Avoid systems that require too much updating or maintenance.

3. Adaptability: guarantee of sustainability

A good system grows with your family:

• Grow with needs : Your system needs to be able to adapt as your children grow and their responsibilities change.

• Flexibility according to periods : It must be able to adjust to different periods of the year (school, holidays, summer camps) and to changes in routine.

• Possible customization : Each family is unique, your system must be able to reflect your values ​​and your way of operating.

Detailed comparison of systems: strengths and weaknesses

Traditional systems Les Belles Combines

Our products are designed specifically for families, with sustainable materials and proven methods. Here's how to choose according to your situation:

Task charts, routine charts and wall calendars

Benefits :

• Permanent visibility: always in sight, impossible to ignore

• Reliability: no battery or internet connection issues

• Strong visual impact: great way to empower children

• Tactile aspect: particularly effective for young children

Disadvantages:

• Requires dedicated wall space

• Manual updates required

• Less flexible for frequent changes

Digital solutions: the Octave application

Benefits :

• Universal accessibility: viewable on all devices

• Instant sharing between family members

• Real-time updates

• Customizable notification and reminder system

• Perfect for active and mobile families

Disadvantages:

• Dependence on technology and internet connection

• Risk of distraction from other notifications

• May be less suitable for very young children

Detailed selection guide according to your family profile

Family with young children (2-7 years)

The key is simplicity and visual stimulation. Focus on:

• Visual systems with clear and playful images

• Easily recognizable pictograms

• Simple, repetitive routines that create cues

• Tables placed at child height to encourage independence

• Immediate and tangible rewards

Family with mixed age children

The challenge is to satisfy different levels of maturity. Opt for:

• Hybrid systems combining several approaches

• Levels of complexity adapted to each age

• Evolving responsibilities that grow with the child

• A combination of traditional and digital media

For example, use charts with pictograms for younger children's routines, while maintaining a shared digital calendar for the whole family.

Family with teenagers

The emphasis is on autonomy and accountability. Prefer:

• Digital solutions that match their technological use

• Systems allowing great autonomy

• Discreet reminders via the app

• Collaborative planning that involves their participation

Phased Implementation: Step-by-Step Guide

Phase 1: Preparation (1-2 weeks)

This phase is crucial to lay solid foundations:

• Conduct a complete audit of your current organization

• Consult all family members to understand their needs

• Set clear and realistic goals

• Choose the system that best suits your needs

Phase 2: Test (2-3 weeks)

The trial period allows the system to be refined:

• Install the chosen system in a strategic location

• Train each family member on its use

• Make daily adjustments based on feedback

• Note the friction points to correct them

Phase 3: Adoption (1-2 months)

The consolidation phase establishes new habits:

• Establish clear and regular routines

• Clarify everyone's responsibilities

• Celebrate small successes to maintain motivation

• Make minor adjustments if necessary

Essential questions before choosing

Before you get started, take the time to answer these fundamental questions:

• Technology Level : How technologically savvy is your family?

• Budget : How much investment can you make for this system?

• Current Routine : What are your current daily habits?

• Sticking Points : Where are the main organizational challenges?

• Communication : What are your existing communication methods?

Start small, but start now

The most common mistake is to want to change everything at once. "At first, I had everything planned down to the minute," says Stéphanie, mother of two. "I quickly understood that you have to leave room for the unexpected."

Start with:

• Choose a specific aspect to improve

• Set up a simple system

• Observe the results

• Adjust as needed

The natural evolution of your system

“Our system evolved naturally,” explains Marion, a mother of three. “We started with a simple task board, then gradually added elements as needed. Now with Octave, we have more latitude, the older ones create their own lists and add their events to the calendars more spontaneously.”

Conclusion: an investment for the future

Choosing and implementing a family organization system is a crucial step in your transformation into a parent leader. Take the time to think carefully about your needs and don't hesitate to experiment with different approaches. The goal is not perfection, but a gradual improvement in your family's daily life.

Coming soon in our full report on parental leadership:

• The art of communication and loyalty to the organizational system

• The Art of Delegation: A Guide for Perfectionist Parents

• Motivation and routines: the secrets of a committed family

• Family council: your solution in times of demotivation

Want to track your progress? Use our progress guide directly in the Octave app or download its printable version in our free Little Hacks.

🚀 Find this article and much more in the Octave app: shared calendar, collaborative task list, meal planner, centralization of family information and autonomy monitoring - your number 1 ally for an organized family life! 📱✨