That particular ‘s’ word can bring up a myriad of emotions. Maybe it feels like summer just started. Or maybe you’re counting down the hours until the squabbling stops and you can return to “normal”.
No matter how you’re feeling right now, the summer will eventually come to an end and school will be back in session, bringing its own set of challenges.
The truth is, there are a few ways that you can enjoy (or get through) the last few weeks of summer.
Be intentional
This time of year it can feel like you’ve just found the groove for your summer routine when it’s time to switch it up again.
You can feel less stressed if you purposefully make choices that work for your family. Can you work from home a little more while the kids are there? Or are you finding and enrolling them in all the day camps to keep them occupied?
This is a time to think about what you and your family need and plan in advance when possible. Maybe that’s freeing up an afternoon for some pool time or bringing the kids to the office for a few hours to get things done.
Allow space
There is no need to feel like you are an activities director on a cruise ship during the summer. Believe it or not, you shouldn’t schedule every moment of the summer.
Building in time for independent activities means that everyone gets a choice. Contrary to the opinion of every child who ever lived, no one has ever died of boredom. It’s actually healthy to let your kids experience it.
Boredom boosts creativity, enhances problem solving skills, allows for ‘passion projects’, and fosters independence. In a nutshell – it teaches life skills that can’t be found in a textbook or on a screen.
The upside is that this also gives you space to get some work done, organize the pantry, or even enjoy a quiet moment to yourself.
Plan for the transition
It’s all about the process. You can’t walk into a store or even go shopping online without realizing that school is coming soon. Don’t let the giant displays of glue sticks and crayons overwhelm you, though. A few tips can help you (and your kiddos) make the transition smoothly.
- Gradual Adjustments: If a normal bedtime hasn’t been seen in weeks, start the transition back to a regular sleep schedule by gradually moving bedtime by 15 minutes. This prevents the shock of sudden change and makes for happier kids (and moms).
- Involve Everyone: One thing that is guaranteed to empower kids (and adults) is choice. As much as possible, get them involved in the process. Getting input for the specific backpack, first day of school outfit, and lunches can ease anxiety – and make your first day back less hectic.
- Self-care for Mom: Last, but by no means least, remember to take care of yourself. As a working mom, it’s easy to get lost in the endless cycle of work, chores, and parenting. Prioritize your self-care routine – whether it’s yoga, reading, or a calming cup of tea at the end of the day.
Transitioning from a carefree summer to the structured school routine may feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be chaotic. It’s all about good planning, open communication, and balance. Take one day at a time, savor the summer’s end, and greet the school year with the confidence of a supermom. You’ve got this!
