Mixed Feelings about Back-to-School

School is almost back in session! Each year we wonder where the summer went! We enjoyed fun weeks at camp, some family vacation time, pool parties, and camping. But it still seems like it passed way too quickly!

As a busy working mom (of 4), I am excited to get back into a more structured routine for our weekdays. But also, I’m dreading the commitments of after school activities, homework, assignments, and the general rush of getting through each week. I have a lot of mixed feelings about August!

Trying to get yourself prepared for the school year? Maybe these checklist items can help your mom-brain process that August is almost here!

1. Make a list of all the things that need to be ordered (uniforms, school supplies, etc) or picked up at the store, or phone calls that need to be made. We had to get a school physical for athletics this year – add that to the list!
2. Prepare for the nightly schedule and see where you can delegate tasks or ask for help. A weeknight sitter or assigning an older child to cook one night a week could help.
3. Eliminate any unneeded or less important tasks in your week. What can you take off your plate or delegate to someone else? This one is hard, but your stress level will thank you later!
4. Get really friendly with your calendar! Whether it’s on your smart phone or a good ole paper calendar, mark down as much as you can to plan for work schedules, school functions, assignments, sports and other commitments.
5. Tag team with other parents. Are there other moms and dads headed to the same sport / activity as you? Take turns and share the carpool burden!
6. Consider a group meal train. (I’ve always wanted to do this!) Get together with 3-5 families and each family takes one night of the week to cook dinner for everyone! Easy meals like spaghetti, tacos, or casseroles would be great for this.
7. Give yourself some stress-reducing gifts: can you journal, add meditation to your week, or schedule some time to walk or exercise?

No matter how you’re feeling about back-to-school, it will be here before we know it! Hang in there, Moms!

Please share any helpful back-to-school tips you may have!