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The back-to-school season can be an exciting, yet chaotic time of the year for both parents and children alike. Your schedule is upended, your kids are nervous about school, and you have to somehow hold it together and remain calm and organized. There are ways, however, to combat the back-to-school chaos and ensure that both you and your children start the school year off on the right foot. Whether you’re a Type-A kind of parent or you’re a little more laid-back, these tips can help you navigate this crazy time of year:

Set a Sleep Schedule:

The correlation between quality sleep and success in school is well-established. During the summer months, it’s easy for your kids to fall out of their usual sleep/wake-up routine. They get used to staying up late and sleeping in, which can make it extra difficult for them when that early-morning wake-up call hits in September. In order to avoid this shock to their system, you can gradually set their internal clocks back onto “school-time” by waking them up and putting them to bed a little earlier each day in the 1-2 weeks leading up to their first day of school. Your kids will hardly notice the difference, but this simple trick will help them be more engaged and alert in class. 

Note: If your child suffers from asthma or allergies, it can be difficult for them to achieve good quality sleep throughout the night because of dust, pollen, and other triggers in their bedroom. To help your child get a more restful night’s sleep, check out our Spry Pure filtered pillows, which prevent allergens and asthma triggers from accumulating in your child’s bedding.

Arrange a Playdate:

The first day back at school can be intimidating for even the most outgoing of kids. Seeing a familiar face or two can make all the difference for putting your child at ease in the classroom and at recess. In the weeks leading up to their first day back, try to arrange some playdates with kids you know will be in their class–that way they’ll have a buddy to hang out with when school starts.

Pick Out Fun School Supplies:

The back-to-school season isn’t typically the most exciting time for kids (especially if they’re still grieving for the end of summer). One way you can make it more exciting for them is by taking them along when you go back-to-school shopping. Choosing the colors and designs of their school supplies can be a fun, engaging way for them to express themselves and maintain a sense of control while entering the school year.

 Make a Family Calendar:

Establishing structure and routine to your family’s day-to-day will not only make your life easier, it will also help your kids become better adjusted. Keeping a family calendar with everyone’s weekly activities will help you keep track of their extracurriculars and allow you to plan your time accordingly. While there are some great apps that you can use on your phone, it’s also helpful to have a physical calendar in the home where everyone can see it (either on the wall, the refrigerator, or a countertop).

Leave Room for Fun Time:

The first few weeks after school starts can be stressful and hectic. Despite, or perhaps because of this, it’s important to carve out a little time every day when you and your kids can play, have fun, or just relax. This will not only give you time to decompress and de-stress, it will also give you a chance to bond with your kids.

At the end of the day, back-to-school season should be an exciting, enjoyable time for you and your kids. By taking it one step at a time and staying organized, there’s nothing the school year can throw at your family that you can’t handle.