Designate a homework caddy, and have your kids fill it with all their school supplies (When you're not running around in search of pencils, glue and markers, homework time will run more smoothly.) Other caddies that will save you time: a bill-paying caddy with stamps, envelopes, a calculator and your check book; a housecleaning caddy; a diaper caddy; a pet-care caddy; and a manicure and pedicure caddy!

(Diaper caddy available at UncommonGoods.)