Turn family chaos into choreographed communication
Simple, stylish tools make it easier to stay on schedule, stay in touch

Today's families are definitely on the go. Between work, school, sports and social activities, the average American family has lost 539 hours together annually compared to a generation ago. But how can families make up for lost time, communicate effectively and maintain their busy schedules to maximize their available hours?

The solution - a simple family communication system that takes the refrigerator noteboard to the next level, with stylish communications tools designed for every member of the family.

For Natasha Wilson, a New Orleans attorney, wife and mother of two sets of twins under the age of five, organization and communication are essential.

"We are always going so many different directions between both of our jobs, four children, social activities and the children's activities that it can be complete chaos at our house," said Wilson. "With the addition of the second set of twins, we had to create a communication system so we could keep up with everything and still keep in touch with each other."

"It's all about staying in touch and staying on the same page in terms of priorities and schedules," said Seesong Kang, a product designer for ACCO Brands who regularly researches communications styles and tools. "When schedules get out of sync and communication stops, tempers flare and feelings get hurt. There are some easy to use organizational tools today that allow families to effectively plan and manage their lives. It doesn't have to be a complicated process, it's really about opening up the communications and working together."

ACCO Brands offers a new line of stylish communication tools designed for the home that provide an easy system for family scheduling and information sharing. Homeowners can start with the Quartet® Coastal Breeze™ Décor dry erase monthly planner board to create a stylish kitchen command center. Quartet markers are designed to work with the board, and each family member can select a signature color for their activities. The coordinating dry erase board provides an excellent

space for household chore lists, shopping

lists and messages. Both feature stylish white frames to coordinate with clean, modern décor. Magnets add color and keep papers organized on the boards.

For more traditional homes, the Quartet® Blue Mountain™ Espresso Décor bulletin and dry erase boards are an excellent option. The dark walnut frame provides a sophisticated look that complements traditional interiors. Whether for a kitchen communication center, a home office or a family room, it offers elegant style.

"The communication system makes it easy for families to keep schedules organized and for everyone to see clearly what everyone in the family has going on," said Kang. "Through our research with consumers, we found that they wanted communications tools to use in their home that didn't look like they belonged in an office. They wanted higher-end frames, higherquality materials and functionality for family members of all ages. We designed the product line around interior design trends such as dark stained wood, colorful accents and sleek design to fit with any home's décor."

For children's rooms, the Quartet® Grid Tins dry erase squares in bright colors are great for leaving messages, daily tasks or even sharing thoughts and drawings. For teens, the Quartet® Woo™ bungee felt bulletin board and Quartet® iQ™ dry erase board offer stylish options for their doors. The easy to install stick-on application provides lasting adhesion.

The ACCO Brands Quartet® home organization and communication products are available at select Wal-Marts throughout the country as well as major office product retailers. For store availability, visit www.acco.com.

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