Time for Routine and Organization

Part 2 of a 3 part series...

Now that the kids are in school think about what will happen in your day. Whether you are a stay at home mom, dad or work full time the school year changes the dynamics of any schedule. Make sure the tasks of carpools, bus schedules, after school clubs and other important dates are on a master calendar. A suggestion is to keep a master calendar in the kitchen somewhere or in a very visible spot where everyone in the family can see it. If you are talking about multiple schedules then think about color coding your kids so that they will know what they have coming. If your children are younger, try making a picture calendar to give them information at their level of understanding and this way they feel like part of the master plan as well.

Make sure that you have had the opportunity to visit the school with your child(ren). Most schools have an ice cream social or back to school night. It is important for your child to see that you are interested in their education and also let the teacher know you will be working along side of them during the school year in making sure your child is successful. If your child is new to the school, make sure you help them find places like the bathroom, the office, the lunchroom. Although, they get a tour when school starts this will help with any anxiety around the start of school. Even returning students may have nervous feelings about their new class. If your child is bigger, then empower them by having them show you around the school and where their class is located. They will feel at ease if they have a question or concern by being put in a more responsible place. How many of us have heard this statement over and over…”Mom, I know.”

It is important that you stay on top of what your child is eating for lunch and snacks throughout the day. Healthy choices begin at a young age and stay with kids throughout adolescence into adulthood. Set the example early. Find out if the school lunches being served are balanced and if your child will actually even eat them. Otherwise, send a balanced lunch. A snack should not be a sugary one and should provide enough substance to carry them through the day. A piece of fruit, a granola bar, cheese and crackers, etc. are all good examples. Always send a water bottle with your child. Most schools allow them and would rather the kids have easy access to water. This will cut down on the amount of times the children will ask to go and get a drink as well and
make more time for learning.

Part 3 ... After School