Back-To-School already?

I'm sorry, but I'm going there. As summer is winding down, I'm sure you're counting down the days until school starts or not.

I'm sorry, but I'm going there.

As summer is winding down, I'm sure you're counting down the days until school starts or not.

I have a few helpful organizing tips to make the transition a little easier from lazy summer days to no fuss school days.

Tip #1

Gather all necessary school supplies in advance to avoid the crowds and make sure you get what is needed. Or Amazon is another great way to avoid crowds all together :) Quite often, I'd wait until September only to be frustrated that I couldn't find what was on the school supply list.

Tip #2

Prepare an area in your home where you're children can have a quiet homework station. Having all their supplies in front of them in a caddie where they can always have their pens, pencils, scissors, glue, etc. can really help to keep distractions to a minimum and stay organized too!

I also like having a family command center where they can check-in to see the calendar for due dates, events and activities they may have. Also, a place for incoming and outgoing school papers to be signed.

The command center could also have a spot for backpacks and lunch boxes to be hung. Much easier to access when they're hung.

Tip #3

Snacks. Yes, every child I have ever met needs snacks. So, it's a good idea to include your children in a healthy snack shopping spree! Have them choose protein rich foods that will carry them over until the next meal. Seeds, nuts, cheese and hummus are just a few suggestions. Also, fruit is a great substitute for the sweet tooth. ( I know, I have 2 sweet tooth kids )

If you have a pantry, it doesn't matter what size, you can have bins filled with grab and go snacks for those hectic mornings, after school homework time or any other time your sweeties need a snack.

Tip #4

My favorite of all...NOT! It's their clothes. Going through their clothes to see what does or doesn't fit and what hasn't been worn can be a tedious task. But believe me, this so important if you want to have calm mornings during the school year. Because when your child has clothing they are not wearing it can take up precious space, not to mention finding what they want to wear that morning.

This is a great rainy day activity for sure. I always mentioned that donating to less fortunate children is a very kind gesture. It really helps younger children learn to be more compassionate towards others.

I hope this has helped you get started with these tips and routines so that you and your family will have an organized, productive school year.

And don't forget to take that first day school picture.