Transitioning from a slow summer to a school time rush can be hard on all of us. The kids have to get used to a new routine and moms are in charge of making it all happen. It can be stressful even for a WunderMom!
This year, I have three kids that will be in elementary school…and a new baby joining us at the same time. Our days are going to be busy and full! Lucky for me, I have a few tricks up my sleeve to maintaining stress free school days. These 4 tips are sure to keep our morning rush, after school craze and evening routines running smoothly.
TIPS FOR STRESS FREE SCHOOL DAYS
Keep a Family Command Center
The family command center is the central location for everyone to communicate Having one location for the calendar, paperwork, and homework makes it quick and easy to find what it is you need for the day. In our family command center we keep a calendar to track each persons activities, a location for in coming and out going mail, and of course a homework stations. The kids know where to find all of their homework and any paperwork that needs to be signed and returned to the school.
Use a Checklist
Having a routine checklist for the kids helps them to become more responsible with their own items and it takes much of the stress off of mom. Our checklist is separated into morning and evening routines. Each child has their own and as they go about getting everything ready for the day, they can cross off their items – that way everyone is on the same page and mom knows what still needs to be done.
Quick Breakfasts to Go
Most mornings there just isn’t enough time to sit down and eat, but we want to make sure that their little bodies are fueled fo school. I keep easy breakfast options like Jimmy Dean® Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Croissants® on hand. They are ready to go and easy for the kids to assemble for themselves and take with them as we head out the door.
Easy After School Snacks
Some students eat lunch as early as 1130 am, followed by recess and PE. Needless to say they are starving when they come out of school. My kids also play sports so there is very little time to fuel them up and get their homework done after school before we are heading out the door again. Keeping easy afterschool snacks on hand like State Fair® Beef Corn Dogs® is a must. Add in some fun dips and veggie sticks and you have a meal ready for them when they get home.
I get a great deal at my local Walmart on both of these options where you can find them in the freezer section!
Do you have any tips for keeping those busy school days stress free? I’d love to hear them!
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Jimmy Dean®. The opinions and text are all mine.
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