TIPS FOR MAKING BACK TO SCHOOL A BREEZE

GRACIE: HOT PINK LIGHTWEIGHT JACKET // STRIPED DENIM SKIRT // TEE // BLACK HIGH TOPS // CLEAR PINK BACKPACK

ISLA: STRIPED DRESS // KITTY BACKPACK // BOW // HIGH TOPS

ELLIOTT: SHORT SLEEVE BUTTON DOWN // MOTO JEANS // ROLLING BACKPACK // SNEAKERS

Getting those kiddos back to school can be challenging after the carefree easy days of summer. In this post I will lay out my tips for getting the kids back in the groove-hopefully alleviating some of that back to school stress!

CALL A FAMILY MEETING AND SET THE GROUND RULES.

All together we go over what is expected of the kids before heading out the door in the mornings to school. We make a check list of what they need to complete before leaving. (i.e.making bed, getting dressed, brushing teeth, making sure backpack is by the door with their shoes)
Then we discuss what is expected in the afternoon immediately after getting home from school. (i.e. getting their backpacks & shoes out of the car then starting homework, next doing their daily chore. We also talk about what expected after dinner time- bedtime routine)
The timeline for these expectations is laid out as well, wake up times and bed times. As they will adjust compared to summer.
Next we go over consequences if these expectations are not met.
Finally we post the agreed upon expectations so they can have a daily visual reminder in family kitchen area.

SET OUT UNIFORMS INCLUDING SOCKS AND SHOES THE NIGHT BEFORE.

Make sure the kids pick out their clothes including shoes & socks the night before. This is especially helpful since some days are dress down or spirit days. It helps me remember the day before since my brain is foggy at 6am!

MAKE LUNCHES, SET OUT WATER BOTTLES & PACK BACKPACKS THE NIGHT BEFORE.

If I don't do this there is sure to be a fight over the water bottle selection, an added stress we don't need in the morning. Anytime I can avoid a fight, I do my best to try!
Have the kids pack their backpacks with any clothes or snacks for after school activities the night before is a big morning time save. This also helps me not forget!!

MAKE A FAMILY CALENDAR AND ACTIVITY CENTER

Create a family calendar that tracks everyone's activities and commitments. This is crucial when you are balancing multiple kids' sports and extracurricular activities. Make sure you include days off from school for holidays and important teach conferences.

BUY THEIR BACK TO SCHOOL CLOTHES AND SUPPLIES ONLINE

Buying online helps you avoid impulse purchases, staying organized buying only what you need.
The biggest plus for me is avoiding long lines.
You also bypass fighting with your kiddos about what they want vs. what they need. I did most of my kids fall shopping at Walmart. If I was unsure about a size, I just got two sizes, then I easily returned in store. (or you can mail in with free return label)
There are many more styles and sizes options available online. Below I will link some of my faves.
Getting their school supplies is a breeze with Walmart. You can just enter your school's name and add to cart. It's as easy as 1, 2, 3!

SHOP ISLA'S LOOK

SHOP GRACIE'S LOOK

SHOP ELLIOTT'S LOOK

GIRLS

BOYS

I was very impressed with the kids' back to school clothes at Walmart! They have so many cute fall clothes to choose from. I hope this post helps make your back to school a breeze!

xx,

Jess

A big thanks to Walmart for sponsoring this post!