Summer gives way to school year

Summer is over. I, as well as all the other parents, have gathered all the essentials for the new school year, tried to finish the projects we saved for warmer weather, got in one last camping trip, attended the last summer birthday parties and family BBQs, and am trying to bring order back into the home. But, we’re nowhere near ready.

We hear it all the time, “summer is already over?!”. It’s true, it flies by and I attribute some of that to the fact that in my household, we lose all sense of direction and seemingly “go with the flow” during summer. The end of summer brings on the realization of how important it is to not only create a schedule for yourself, but your kids as well.

All of us parents aspire to raise functioning members of society (I hope) and that starts from a young age. Setting ground rules and establishing a routine from the beginning creates a sense of fullness in our lives. Children need that to help them become more successful.

Creating a daily schedule for the school year can set up your household to flow at an easier, less stressful pace during the week.

It’s simple things that make this work; wake up at the same time each morning, create the same routine, whether that’s shower, coffee, breakfast, brush your teeth, grab lunches, get out the door. Create those same routines with your children and stick with it. Have your children choose an outfit the night before. If your household is anything like mine then this simple step is a life saver. Pack lunches the night before as well; anything that can take some of the load off in the morning always helps.

We all have our off days, – give yourself some grace – but seeing your routine through as much as possible will make for a better day.

We have to teach our children to the best of our abilities to establish good habits. This will take them far and create well rounded individuals. The world doesn’t wait for anyone, teach them that and start now.