7 Ways to Survive Back to School like a Boss
It’s that time of year . . . Back to School time! Whether you have one kiddo or six, this time of year can be stressful with all the lists, getting back into routines, new school, entering new grades, the list goes on and on. So today we’re sharing 7 ways to survive back to school like the boss Mom you are!
1. Do Some Prep
A little advance legwork can save a lot of hand-holding during the morning rush. So set your child up for success by readying easy-to-forget essentials (calculator, tissue pack, flash cards, etc.) in the evening. Bag up lunch and put it on a low shelf in the fridge so kids can reach it at go time. (via scholastic.com)
2. Tool Up
Obtain the class supply list and take a special shopping trip with your child. Having the right tools will help him feel prepared. While keeping basic needs in mind, allow for a couple of splurges like a cool notebook or a favorite-colored pen. These simple pleasures make going back to school a lot more fun.
School supply lists also provide great insight into the schoolwork ahead. Get your child excited about upcoming projects by explaining how new supplies might be used. Let him practice using supplies that he’s not used before — such as colored pencils or a protractor — so he will be comfortable using them in class. (via pbs.org)
3. Budget your Back-to-School List
The most important part of school shopping is setting a budget. Even more important is including the kids. Sit down with them, show them how a budget works, and what your plan of attack is. When it comes to the actual shopping part, give them a small budget of their own to buy their wants. The catch is they do the math, and you help them make conscious decisions on quality and usefulness. (via thesurvivalmom.com)
4. Set a Fast Pace
Despite your best efforts, there are going to be days when the kids dawdle. What to do? Play a Beat The Clock game. Pick related tasks (think: brushing hair and teeth and washing hands), set a timer for five minutes, and ask your kid if he can do them all before the buzzer rings. Every time he succeeds, give him a point to be used for a treat. Your reward: a few precious hands-off moments to sip coffee! (via scholastic.com)
5. Make it a Challenge
The surprising secret to developing the behavior you want? Tell your kid you’re unsure he can do the task, whether it’s picking out clothes solo, packing books, or sitting down to breakfast. “Parents sometimes have a misguided view that reasoning with a child is the way to get him to change his behavior,” notes Alan E. Kazdin, Ph.D., director of the Yale Parenting Center. “But if you just say, ‘I don’t think you can get dressed all by yourself. Only big boys can do that,’ kids will often respond, ‘Oh, no, I can!’” Once your little one successfully completes a task, heap praise on him — it’ll encourage a repeat performance. (via scholastic.com)
6. Ease Into The Routine
Switching from a summer to a school schedule can be stressful to everyone in the household. Avoid first-day-of-school mayhem by practicing your routine a few days in advance. Set the alarm clock, go through your morning rituals, and get in the car or to the bus stop on time. Routines help children feel comfortable, and establishing a solid school routine will make the first day of school go much smoother. (via pbs.org)
7. Get An Effortless Beauty Routine for YOU
Mornings are hectic, which is why the less time you spend getting ready in the mornings, the better. But you still want to look great and feel refreshed each morning, so let The Lash Lounge help you with that. Lash Extensions and any of our other fabulous lash and brow services are always a hit with Moms as it helps make their morning routines even easier, especially this time of year. Click here to find a salon near you and give yourself the gift of effortless beauty for the new school year!
If you have any tips to share with fellow Moms or Parents, please leave us comment!
