Are you looking for ways on how to have a Successful First Day Back to School? Here are 5 tips to help you keep things simple and stress free!
The excitement/anxiety of the first day of school is something I can remember so clearly. In an effort to cut back on the first day of school jitters, we have come up with some quick easy ways to help start the school year off on the right foot!
Plan Ahead
At least a week before school starts, we will start getting back into the school year routines. Waking up and going to bed at set times start to be reinforced a bit more. This is especially important for me to adjust to the morning routine. I’m a stickler with hot breakfasts on school mornings so the kids’ bellies stay full longer. In order for that to happen, I need to be up and making breakfast by a certain time. Sticking to a schedule and seeing how realistic our expectations are BEFORE the first day of school is key.
Set Schedules and Goals as a Family
We had a family meeting and scheduled out our morning. There is so much that can be accomplished before school if everyone is on board with the plan. We set times for waking up, family scripture study, piano practice, breakfast, and when to leave for school. The kids worked out who practices piano at what time, when they will make their lunches, etc. We also set a family goal of no tardies and chose an incentive to keep us motivated.
Establish Routines
We have these charts that I absolutely love. Instead of running through the list of “have you brushed your teeth, combed your hair, made your bed, etc?” we have a chart for each kid. Some kids need a little more motivation, or help remembering certain things. A chart is a simple way to help them remember without being nagged. We have both a morning and a night time chart. The most important part of the night time chart is always to lay out your clothes for the next day. This prevents any early morning scramble or potential disastrous start to the day over not having the right thing to wear.
Prepare Food
I love to eat hot breakfasts on school mornings. We mix things up with pancakes, eggs, yogurt and granola, etc. For most mornings though, we have oatmeal. We simply soak the oats overnight and then it takes just as long to cook in the morning as it would take to cook instant oatmeal. Using regular oatmeal fills you up more, and has WAY less sugar. Plus, you can add your own delicious toppings!
I’ve mentioned our Rotating Lunch Menu before. This has provided the perfect balance of structure and freedom. The kids love having something different each day, but not having to come up with the ideas on their own. Our newest full-time school goer has been perfecting the sandwich making process all summer and will be making their lunch the night before in case they need a little extra time to put everything together. The cupboards are fully stocked with all the dishes and food items we need, so we are set to make lunches!
Keep Traditions Simple
I love traditions! With the birth of social media and Pinterest though, it can feel like you will never keep up with the rest of the world and their traditions. As school starts, the guilt of not measuring up to expectations can haunt you! Our first day of school traditions don’t include an elaborate breakfast, hairstyle, or a fancy sign announcing the grade of each child. Our traditions include a group picture of the kids heading to school, and all of us walking to school together. Keeping it simple lessens stress and expectations for everyone.
How do you prepare for the first day of school?
