It’s that time of year again, when the days begin to get shorter and our calendars begin to get busier. It’s time for the kids to go back to school. No more late nights on the back deck eating marshmallows, it’s time to set alarm clocks and pull out the books. A little planning can help you and your family avoid some school year stress.
Develop a routine. Do your best to get your family’s routines set. Having a plan for when things are going to get done helps everyone relax. Let the kids participate in deciding what the daily schedule will look like. A good routine includes the following:
Time to rise Picking out clothing for each day (best done the night before) Menu plan Homework Lunch preparation Packing school bags Chores Family fun time Lights out or bedtime Extra-curriculars
When kids know what’s expected and when it makes for a smoother household.
Shop big and use your freezer. It’s such a great feeling to know you’ve got breakfast, lunches and dinner covered. Try to limit your grocery shopping to one huge trip and stock up on things. Take some time regularly to cook up a storm and fill your freezer with great homemade meals. You’ll save time and money when you do and your family will eat healthier. Some great freezer suggestions include: stew, chili, baked ziti, and chicken casserole.
Limit the extras. – Encourage your children to keep their extra sports and activities to one or two. Remember as a parent to say no to more volunteer requests on your time then you say yes. You need to carefully guard your family time and not fill your calendar and be running everyone in different directions all the time.
Organize your home. If you organize things at home it will make school so much easier. Hooks by the door for coats and book bags and a mat for shoes makes things much easier to find when you are running out the door. Have designated bags for different activities and don’t forget a special bag for library books. Do your kids know where to put all the papers they need you to sign? Determining where things go is a great stress reducing strategy.
Stay connected. Make sure your entire family stays connected. Parents and kids experience less negative effects from stress when they know they are loved and supported. Take time to have fun together, worship together and hold each other close. A family that operates as a team can get through anything. Read out loud, play board games, play ball in the yard, tell stories, do what it takes to keep your family’s hearts tightly knit.
These few tips will make this school year a positive experience for your entire family. Have a great year!