For many, August is the time when we start to think about our kids going back to school. We say to ourselves, “summer just flew by.” Don’t be surprised if moods change and anxiety starts to kick in for both you and your children.
After a summer without routines and floating bedtimes, “back to school” can be stressful to get back into the “school routine.”
Here are a few tips to help you get organized and minimize the back-to-school stress.
Get Organized
A week or two before school starts, make lists of items you need. Often schools will post supplies lists on the school’s website. Sometimes schools also distribute supplies lists to local department stores. Try and make this fun for the kids and highlight the new exciting supplies they will get to use this year. If they’re having fun, then they won’t mind shopping. If they’re happy shopping, you’ll be less stressed.
Family Planner
There are many events that happen at the beginning of the year. Try getting a family event planner to help keep activities and meetings organized. Keep it posted in a place where everyone can see it to reduce communication breakdown.
Dry Run
Give your family a dry run of school routines. Have your kids start going to bed at their regular school bedtime if it’s different from summer. Also, have them wake up, eat breakfast and get dressed as if they were going to school. This will help you and your kids get your minds and bodies ready for the school year.
The more you and your kids are in a routine before school, the easier and less stressful the big day and first weeks of school will be.
It’s important to make some time for yourself as well, to reduce stress try a relaxing therapeutic massage. Elements Massage™ offers custom massages that will help relax your body and mind; completely reducing any stress that comes with this busy time of year.
Schedule your massage today and see what the power of relaxation can do for you!