5 Tips for Back to School Season
We all know back to school time can be incredibly hectic. After the lazier days of summer vacation, getting back into a routine might feel like an impossible challenge. Moms carry a lot of the mental load of motherhood on their backs which only adds to the stress and pressure of getting everything “just right” The great news is it doesn’t take that much time or effort to find the swing of things, all you need is a little planning. Not only will this make your days run more smoothly, but you’ll also lighten your own mental load. Here are five tips to make things easier for yourself this back to school season.
1. Prep Breakfast After Dinner
We all know breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but let's be honest – getting a wholesome meal on the table while trying to find everyone's missing socks can be a real challenge. To make things easier, prep your breakfast the night before! Whip up some overnight oats, have the frozen waffles at the ready, or even just set out the cereal boxes and bowls in advance. That way, you can fly through the morning routine with ease. Also, providing limited options for your kids can make things run more smoothly and you aren’t playing short order cook before school starts.
2. The Chore Chart
Kids are like tiny tornados, and it's a never-ending struggle to keep the house in one piece. By creating a chore chart, you can get the whole family involved in daily household chores. Even the little ones can help out by putting their toys in a basket or helping you clear the table after dinner. When everyone participates it feels like a team effort.
3. Pre-Pack Lunches
Save yourself from the daily lunchbox scramble by prepping lunch ahead of time. Get your kids involved in making their own sandwiches and snacks for the week. Not only does it teach them responsibility, but it also saves you from hearing the dreaded "I don't want that again" complaints. Have them create their lunches at night before they wind down for bed and provide them with options that teach them how to build a balanced meal.
4. Be Protective of Your Schedule
If you don’t already have a family calendar, it’s time to get one ASAP. Start by putting in the things you already know about: days off of school, sports practices, family birthdays, etc. Refer to this calendar as often as you need to so that you can make sure you aren’t over-scheduling yourself. It’s stressful when you have to try and be in two places at once, so see if you can avoid it altogether!
5. Create a Homework Spot
Designate a quiet homework zone where your kids can focus. Stock it with supplies like pencils, paper, and snacks (snacks make everything better). This way, you can save the dining room table from being turned into a science experiment, and you won't have to hunt for missing school books. As a bonus tip, try to make homework a part of the after school routine where it makes sense. Don’t try to rush it or put it off until the last minute, but carve out a time each afternoon for your kids to be able to do their work at their own pace.
By making these quick changes to your routine, back to school season should be a breeze! And don’t forget to take time for yourself and practice your self care. You’ll feel so much better when you care for yourself as well as your kids.
