Back to School

Parents, school is back in session! The summer memories are still fresh, but the early wake ups and school lunches tell us it is that time again. As everyone gets back into the groove, it is time to reinstate the school routine. For some families, getting everyone back into a routine isn’t a pleasant one. Do you feel like every morning is a fight for survival? Do many mornings include flared tempers? Is getting homework done a never-ending struggle? If you answered yes to any of these, here are five tips to help going back to school a bit smoother.

Organizing the Night Before 

Having kids dressed in an appropriate amount of time can be a struggle! For many, deciding what to wear while still sleepy feels like an impossible task. Picking out clothes the night before removes the stress of making this decision during the morning rush. If this is a new habit, this may require help from the parents. If your child is not used to doing this, they may resist and say that they will do it in the morning. Help them form this habit by assisting until this routine is set. As a bonus, you may form this habit as well!

After-school Downtime

Some parents prefer that homework gets knocked out as soon as they walk in the door. Your kiddos are probably glad to be home after a long day of school and socializing and may have other ideas. There is also a good chance they are tired and hungry. Kids often need downtime as much as adults— especially if they went directly to afterschool activities. Thirty minutes to an hour of time to decompress and eat are important before they are expected to start on homework. Their brains will be fresher and better able to focus.

Homework Check

How many times have you asked your kids if they have homework, were told “no,” and then discovered that was not the case. Simply asking without follow-up allows for mistakes on everyone’s part. Maybe your kid forgot? What if they don’t really want to do it and just say they don’t have any when they really do (other people’s kids, not yours 😉)? Instead of asking if they have homework, say “Please show me your homework.” Most schools have a parent portal. If not, younger children may have a homework folder. Take note at parent orientation or teacher meetings how homework is communicated to students and parents. Simple homework follow-up can go a long way to establishing good routines early in the school year.

The Launch Pad

Routine and structure are going to be your best friend. What is expected each day? What are bedtimes and wake-up times? Who is responsible for making breakfast and school lunches? Prepare for the next day by setting up a “launch pad.” This is an area where the night before you can put everyone’s bookbags, shoes, lunches, sports equipment, and anything else that needs to make it to the car or bus to reduce the rush in the morning. As a parent, this is going to take a bit of extra work on your part and most importantly, consistency. Resist the urge to tell yourself, “My kid has been doing so well, we don’t need this anymore.” Stick to it and reap the benefits!

The Family Planner

With so many thoughts in our heads or lists on our phones, visuals make a difference. Consider having a weekly and monthly planner in a visible area like the kitchen showing important dates and events. Each Sunday, review and update. “Hey, you have a test on Friday. How are you preparing for that?” or “Hey, your project is due in two weeks. What things do you need to get for it?” A visual reminder of the things that are coming up can help reduce last minute cramming and tears when work is not completed on time.

The transition from the care-free days of summer to the daily school schedule can be tough but with a little prep work and consistency, you can make things a bit smoother for everyone in the house.