It seems that the sun has barely set on summer and already we must focus our attention back to sharpened pencils, picky lunch eaters, and school supply lists that never seem to end. Getting ready for back to school can seem like a daunting task after the lackadaisical afternoons of sitting in the sand but just as the seasons change, school is inevitable and something we ultimately have to be prepared for.
Organization and planning can become essentially useful tools to help alleviate some of the stress that’s associated with the long list of endless school activities. School prep can prove to be especially challenging if you have a big brood and getting everyone on the same page becomes a task in itself. Check out these useful tips for a smoother and more successful plan.
Set the “Back to School” Time Early: Two weeks before the first day, to be exact. It can be difficult for children (and adults) to reset their nocturnal clock after the long nights of summer when curfews are somewhat more lax. Ease kids into an earlier schedule by setting an earlier dinner and giving them time to get into their nightly routines.
Consider School Shopping Online – A trip to Staples can often times seem like Black Friday shopping with the mad rush of families all attempting to get ready for the upcoming year. Stores sell out of supplies early, which means you could be left on the waiting list. Websites like Amazon offer most if not all supplies that students are required to have for the first day. The prices are often substantially cheaper and with services like Amazon Prime, arrive promptly the following day. No more long lines!
Have a Carpool System Ready– There’s nothing worse then realizing that morning meeting was an hour earlier than you thought it was with your young ones waiting expectantly at the door ready to leave. We’ve all been there, and sometimes having a trusty friend can help you when you least expect it. If your friendly with parents and neighbors, try coordinating a carpool schedule to ensure a smooth morning getting on the road.
Plan a Parent Teacher Meet and Greet– Contact your child’s teachers at the start of the school year and set up a meeting to get acquainted. Being on the same page with your children’s teacher and letting them know you want to be an active partner in helping your student to learn and grow can really make all the difference in their success. Plan to keep track of your child’s subjects, homework, activities and progress throughout the school year. Let them know that you’d like to have open communication and be notified of any issues that may arise during the year.
Set Up Weekly Family Meetings– This age-old practice may seem somewhat outdated, but the main cause of problems arising during the school year is lack of communication to help alleviate the issue. Make the meetings fun by supplying everyone with ice cream sundaes and begin by informing children that they have a safe, open opportunity to open up about any personal situations without any judgment. Whether it be a bully at school or problems keeping up in calculus, these weekly meetings can help put everyone on the same page and bring the family closer together.
Pencil in Some Fun– It can be difficult for students to stay motivated throughout the long months of class followed by a pile of homework. Although it’s vital for kids to be invested in their education, it’s also necessary to allow them to reset their mental space and enjoy the time they have while not in school. If their schedule allows, plan an activity once a week for the whole family. Try an exciting escape room or a miniature golf outing followed by ice cream to enjoy quality time together and ensure that your loved ones still have time to be kids. Make sure to put the ban on technology during fun time so it can really be enjoyed.
Going back to school can often seem like more of a marathon then a race, but it’s important to make sure you have a strong solid team to cross the finish line. Avoid procrastinating and start your prep the month before to tie up loose ends before the first day. Once the schedule becomes more routine, it will become easier for you and your family to co-exist and get out the door during that early morning rush. Stay organized and the summer will be back before you know it!
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