Yes God, it is that time again! I know parents across the world are celebrating that their refrigerator will now go back to being the same. Besides from being happy the kids are back in school, we now have to prepare for busy school schedules, bus pick-ups, packing lunches, projects, etc. It seems like the busy train never stops moving despite what season it is. Well, I got a few tips for you just in case you are a busy mom like me, who likes to have some type of order during the school year.

Let’s go:

1. Get the school clothes ready– My suggestion is to get a weeks worth of clothes organized beforehand. It’s pretty easy if your kids are like mine and have to wear uniform. I iron all the uniforms for the week so that I don’t have to worry in the morning. If something spills on a shirt they can just grab another one and go. Even if your children does not wear uniform this is helpful. Let them pick out their favorite outfits, socks and shoes for the week. Or take baby steps and try a few days at a time. Thank me later.

2. Don’t turn down help– It takes a village to raise a child. I am lucky to have great parents who help me out often. It is great to have family that can pitch in for school supplies, uniform, school shoes, and anything else.  My mom took my daughter to buy all of her school supplies and school shoes. That made things so much easier for me this year. She has no idea how much I appreciate the help. Now, I can focus on some things for my son.  I also spent more time focusing on bookbags, outfits and miscellaneous stuff, like doctor appointments that needed to be handled prior to school enrollment. It’s not just about purchasing items it is also spending time with them. Let the grandparents watch the kids while you run errands. Utilize your resources. Stop being a Super mom if you can help it.

3. Discount, free resources and tax free weekend– Don’t let social media talk you into spending three million dollars on school supplies. If you are struggling to get your kids supplies hit up your local dollar stores like Dollar Tree. Dollar Tree has notebooks, crayons, pencils and more. You can also find out about your neighborhoods free back to school resources. There are churches and community centers that give free supplies out.  I also encourage you to take advantage of the tax free weekend where you can buy items without paying sales tax. A pencil is a pencil. Get the most bang for your buck!

3. Meal prep/order food– The first back to school weeks will be exhausting and nobody has time to be tired and cooking.  Take advantage of eating out, preparing meals over the weekend or even ordering delivery. Keep it healthy Sis, but manage your time wisely. Also, make sure you pack the kids lunches at night if they don’t want to eat school lunch. No mom wants to be scrambling in the morning looking for bologna.

4. Establish a family routine– Pick a routine that will allow all things needed to be successful. My kids and I establish a routine that allows studying, library, family time, extracurricular activities, etc. Make adjustments if necessary, but it’s always great to have a plan.

5. Have a discussion with your kids– It is time to bring out the motivational speaking. Discuss safety and encourage them to get the most out of their school year. Let them know you are proud of them and that they have a strong support system guiding them along the way.

Good luck Mamas and kiddos.

Cheers to an awesome school year!!!