Back-to-School Tips for Mom and Dad

Back-to-school promises to be a little rougher than usual this year, but don't let this discourage you. Instead, let's get ready to take on back-to-school together and learn a few tips moms and teachers shared with us to make this return to school a little easier for you and your kids. We are certain that you will identify some you already do or plan on doing, as well as others that will remind you that it's also important to take care of yourself, so you may stay happy and alert every step of the way. Get your favorite tea or glass of wine ready and let's start reading this blog, which we dedicate to all super teachers and super parents.

Tips for you and the kids

1. Set your kids' sleep schedules back to "school time" two weeks before the first day of school.
2. Use an egg timer to get your kids used to focusing for specific periods of time.
3. Discuss what your kids can expect on the first day of school so they feel more prepared, even if at home.
4. Ask teachers for class rosters so you can connect your kids with new classmates ahead of time.
5. Talk openly with your kids about their feelings about returning to school and be ready to answer any questions. 
6. Let kids choose a planner or scheduling tool they're excited to use.
7. Help your kids put together a rough outline of their school and activity schedules.
8. Create a family calendar that tracks everyone's activities and commitments.
9. Set up weekly meetings to review your kids' schedules for the week(s) ahead.
10. Schedule blocks of time to check in with each child to see how things are going.

Tips to stay healthy and happy

1. Encourage your kids to lay out their school clothes before going to bed.
2. ​Set an alarm or notification 30 minutes before bedtime. This will help give you some me-time and couple-time.
3. Set — and enforce — regular weekday and weekend bedtimes. 
4. Use night lights, white sound machines and fans for kids who can't get to sleep. Even for yourself. They're the best!
5. Establish a specific space like the family office as an official "homework station." This will help you and the kids to disconnect, especially if they're attending school from home - and you're working from home.
6. Create a rewards system for when kids meet goals or do extra things around the house. This will help give you a little more time and help them feel empowered and in-charge of their tasks.
7. Once a week, give yourself 30 minutes to read a book or watch your favorite show on TV. It's ok to unplug.
8. Try to take a hot shower before bed, after the kids are put to sleep. This can help you sleep better.
9. Stretch for 5 minutes before bed, even if it's while you're laying in bed already.
10. FaceTime or Zoom with your friends for 30 minutes and share anecdotes. It will remind you that you're not alone and you will encourage eachother to keep going. Have some hot tea or wine if you'd like.

We hope you enjoyed these tips. Thank you teachers and parents who helped in putting this list together. For even more tips (over 100 of of them), please visit care.com. Got more tips of your own? Please share them in the comments.

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