Magnetic Wipe-Off Boards, $30 each, the Container Store, www.containerstore.com. Use an erasable marker to jot down to-do lists and messages on these colorful, 15-inch-square magnetic boards. Designate a different color for each family member, and arrange the boards either as a grid or in a row.

The Extras

1. You’ll always know where your keys are if you use the Nava Design magnetized Torquis key holder ($15, www.fitzsu.com).
2. Each Three by Three Seattle Peg Mighties Magnet ($8.50 for six, www.fredflare.com) can grip eight sheets of paper.
3, 5. Less agile fingers may find O.R.E cube superstrong magnets ($8 for six, www.fridgedoor.com) and Magnutz magnets (bottom right; $8, www.momastore.org) easier to handle.
4. Use Oxo magnetic mini clips ($6 for eight, www.oxo.com) for photos.
6. No paper? No problem. Use dry-erase markers, and erase with a damp paper towel.