Many families swore by staggering wake-up and bathroom times to prevent at-home traffic jams. Tina Murphy of Pace, Florida, went so far as to assign each of her kids--ten-year-old twins Courtney and Natalie and nine-year-old Robert--a 20-minute breakfast slot during which they have her undivided attention.

"There's a lot less 'Mom! Mom! Help me!' coming from three mouths at the same time, as well as fewer fights," says Tina. The time is a chance to go over test questions, tie shoes, pack lunches and give hugs. "I realize it takes a little longer to get ready this way," she says, "but the morning peace is worth it."

QUICK TIPS: Prepare for those inevitable last-minute requests by keeping a box of emergency items in the kitchen or car. Possible contents? Pencils, paper, snacks, change, a hairbrush, ponytail holders and socks.