Back to School From A Working Mom’s Perspective

BACK TO SCHOOL

 Summers are always so rejuvenating. Structure and schedules give way to warm days, carefree play, and a laid back attitude. It’s the perfect time to pack in little trips, swim lessons, sports clinics, county fairs, and sleep overs. This is the season where everything eases up and life is less orderly. Inevitably, summer must come to an end hence back to school. The fun doesn’t have to stop there. As a working mom, juggling a home/work balance can be a lot of work. It’s been a minute since I’ve had to focus on this myself. My kids are all adults now but looking back, it was always a mixed bag of emotions. Whether you love it or hate it, there are little tricks to make it something to look forward to. Here are some of the key things that helped my family, I hope they help yours too.

SUPPLY SHOPPING

By the end of summer, most are thankful for the routine that the new season brings. Back to school shopping is fun. For those kids that do not enjoy going back, it’s helpful to let them pick out a few things that are important to them. It could be as simple as black, Ticonderoga wooden pencils instead of mechanical pencils. Some need pretty pens or the perfect lunchbox. Saving their new clothes and shoes for the first day will build excitement for those who aren’t looking forward to letting go of summer.

SLEEP SCHEDULE

A week or so before the first day is the perfect time to start getting back into the habit of earlier bedtimes. By the time school starts kids will be acclimated to their school time schedules. Routines are grounding and help ensure success. Being well rested helps with focus, stress, energy levels, and contributes to a healthy immune system. This could eliminate a late night breakdown the night before, for the one who doesn’t want to go. 

HAVING AN OUTLET

It is important for kids to have hobbies and stay busy. They need an outlet for all of the energy that’s building up in the classroom. This helps build social skills and helps their mental health. Hobbies can be expensive.  Pull from your resources with other parents to do equipment swaps. It is a great way to share gently used gear and keep your budget intact. Something our generation knew nothing about (and learned the hard way) but is now much better understood is head injuries. Contact sports bring risk of concussions. I would recommend baseline testing before your kids get involved in sports, racing, etc. This will help in the event they do get a concussion. The healing process can be lengthy and cause troubles in school, focus, and headaches. You can do them at home now, here is an at home test if you are interested. 

BEING PREPARED

Getting up early, packing lunches, organizing backpacks the night before, carpooling, checking homework,  and planning dinners are all great ways to help keep your home running as smoothly as possible. This can minimize chaotic mornings, when everyone’s on edge. It is fun and rewarding to set aside time after school to hear the news and stories of the day. Sitting down with a healthy snack and taking it all in is a great way to connect and unwind. It is important to make your home a comfortable place where your kids find rest and can be honest with their parents. 

Most importantly, I can tell you this. The saying, ‘the days are long but the years are short” is certainly true.  You will only get 12 “back to schools”, a few more if they go to college. Time is precious. Try to enjoy all the little details that make up your crazy days. Strive to make your home a safe place your children can lay their head. No matter what life hands them now or in the future, they will know you love and support them unconditionally at home.

Here’s wishing you a wonderful school year!

Danelle