It's Back to School time and a great time to reset, but there can also be a hectic pace that may feel challenging. Life is ever evolving with growing kids, so who wants to reinvent the wheel where we can help it? Below are a few ways our family minimizes stress as we approach the fall with our 3 kiddos. It’s not always easy to make these transitions, but we can do it together!
Set Expectations
What are the new years routines for each kiddo?
What worked last year and what needs tweaking?
Are there new chores to incorporate?
What are the screen time rules on school days?
Think through morning + after school routines. Consider hanging up a visual checklist for younger kiddos to help with expectations.
Supplies Reboot
Are your kids backpacks and lunch boxes in good shape and ready to go?
Keep all backstock supplies in ONE area of the home (closet, mudroom cabinet...) for easy pulling when items run low.
Use up what you have or donate leftovers to teachers to use for kids in need. We often have composition notebooks with only a few pages used. I just tear those out and cover up old name labels with tape or let the kids cover with stickers.
Seasonal Clothing Swap
Consider what the kids have outgrown, particular for upcoming cooler weather.
Keep ONE location where outgrown clothes can land and a plan for where they go (hand me downs to younger siblings, pass along to a neighbor, consign?).
Make a list of needs for each kiddo so when you are out and about you can take a look.
If your kids participates in sports, dance, etc. do they have the items they need? Have you removed any outgrown items?
Minimal Meal Plan
It's tacos every Tuesday and pizza every Friday in our house during the school year. Throw in a soup/salad/sandwich night or a snacky supper for a quick and easy go-to.
Breakfast Restock: My kids are at the age they can feed themselves. I keep bagels, cereal, muffins, yogurt and frozen breakfast sandwiches on hand for them to choose. Do they sometimes complain about nothing to eat? Yes! But there is plenty so they can figure it out. Donuts or pancakes are reserved for the weekend.
Staying Organized
Command Center: Designate ONE spot where those school papers and reminders can land for easy reference. The kitchen counter isn't it! This is a great place for field trip forms, birthday party invites, sports schedules, and spelling words to practice.
A family calendar also makes a great addition to your command center
Are there carpools that would make the daily comings and goings easier?
Designate a drop zone for school papers/artwork that comes home. If possible process paperwork daily or at least weekly. Recycle as much as possible as soon as it comes in.
Create a home for backpacks (hooks on their level work great) and shoes kicked off at the end of the day. Can you incorporate a basket in the mudroom or near the door they come in?