With the start of the first week of school for District 186 this week, I’m reaching into my secret tool bag of mom tricks to help be the calm through the storm this week. Every year, this week brings up a lot of emotions in everyone in our household; stress for the kids in the change of routine, frustration in having to maintain composure through the school day, and maybe a bit of relief on my end to have a few hours of afternoon freedom.
However, I’ve found that there are a few keys ways I can make our greetings after school go much smoother:
1. I always greet them with a smile. Even if I’m not feeling it, or if I’ve had a rough day, I make sure I smile at them as soon as I see them, because it helps remind them that there is always someone who values them at home.
2. Prepare a snack!! This is a big one. If your kids are anything like mine, the first week of school means they are spending all of lunchtime talking with friends they haven’t seen all summer and they forget to eat. A snack with protein and carbohydrates helps balance their blood sugar and mood.
3. Keep things prepared and organized. Books go back in backpacks before bed, morning clothes are laid out, and alarms are set. The easier the morning routine is to get out the door, the happier the start to the day.
4. Plan for quiet time after school. After the excitement of the day and learning new rules and boundaries for new teachers, the end of the day needs some relaxation.
5. Ask specific questions about their day, that aren’t just, “What did you learn today?” My favorites are “What made you happy/sad today?” or “What did you play at recess today and with who?” Their answers might surprise you!
It’s a great idea to have a fun activity planned for the upcoming weekend to blow off some steam. With the end of the Illinois State Fair last week, this weekend is a great time to hit up the Route 66 Drive Inn for a movie, get in some splash time through the last few weekends at Knight’s Action Park, or spend a morning taking a stroll through downtown at Old Capitol Farmer’s Market.
– Lacey
Do you have any tips for back to school time? Leave a reply below!
