My youngest is gearing up for middle school, which means elementary school is now in our rearview mirror. It seems like just yesterday we were starting kindergarten, but now I've somehow become that mom who's seen it all, especially during the chaotic back-to-school times.
Do you feel like you're juggling more than a few balls in the air right now as the school year starts? Worry not! I've got five tried-and-tested tricks up my sleeve that can help you turn the chaotic start to the school year into a breeze:
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1. Make back-to-school shopping hassle-free
Don't leave back-to-school shopping to the last minute. Make a list of all the supplies and essentials your kids need, and schedule a time to complete your shopping. I am impressed with the back-to-school section at Five Below — it's got everything we need on our list!
Plus, check out these amazing deals on backpacks and lunchboxes. Priced at just $5, your child can style them with fun keychains and patches to make them uniquely their own. Super cute.
Got a kid heading off to school? Five Below's Dorm Shop has everything you'd need to fully outfit a dorm room from bedding to electronics to meal prep. And at these prices? We're in.
Five Below offers online shopping for delivery or store pickup for no extra fee — so you can get that list done even faster.
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2. Establish a morning and bedtime routine, then stick to it
A set time for waking up and going to bed each night creates a predictable daily structure for kids, which can go a long way to offering a sense of stability and security and reducing anxiety and uncertainty. Plus it helps them in school: When kids get enough rest, they are more alert and better able to focus, concentrate, and retain information. Their teachers will thank you!
Talk to your child about when they want to do their homework — right after school? Right after dinner? — and make that part of the daily routine so they get in the habit without you having to nag them every day. Because that's not fun for anyone.
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3. Create a command center
Setting up a command center at home was a game-changer for my family. Use a bulletin board, a whiteboard, or even a chalkboard to keep track of important dates, events, and school schedules. This way, you'll never miss a practice or a school event, and you can easily coordinate your family's activities. I was keeping it all in my phone, but it's much more helpful when everyone can see what's happening that day and not just me!
My family uses this 1Thrive wall organizer — the kids drop any papers I need there, and our weekly dinner plan is there for everyone to see. But most importantly, we all can update the calendar with events, practices, and everything else that keeps us on the go.
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4. Meal plan and prep
I have found weekly meal planning helps to streamline grocery shopping and save us money. For me, it's as simple as sitting down with my husband on Sundays and going through each night — what nights will we be eating and running? What nights do we have time to grill? — and then building our meal plan around it. I usually let the kids choose a dinner each week too (It's always tacos!). We post the meal plan on our wall organizer, which is great because whoever is home first can start prepping dinner. It's also cut back on how many times I'm asked Mom, what's for dinner?
Looking for breakfast ideas? I've made these egg muffins as a quick on-the-go breakfast the whole family likes. Give them a try if your family struggles with finding time for a nutritious breakfast before heading out the door!
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5. Encourage independence
Finding ways to encourage independence, even at a young age, not only lightens your load but also empowers your children to become more responsible.
As your kids grow older, encourage them to take on more responsibilities. In terms of school, for instance, my kids pack their own lunches (hallelujah!), are responsible for their own backpacks, and get themselves up each morning.
Every kid is different, though — independence may mean something different for your children. Besides school-related tasks, you can also encourage self-reliance by involving them in planning family outings, giving them an allowance, and even participating in basic cooking or household chores. Identify their strengths and interests while gradually guiding them toward becoming capable and confident individuals. Then give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done.
I hope your back-to-school time is enjoyable and stress-free! I'm wishing all of you out there, and your kids, a successful and fantastic school year ahead!
