Tips and Tricks for All Things Back to School

It’s almost back-to-school time. I totally remember those days–on one hand, the lazy days of zero schedule and Popsicle stained shirts are over.  On the other, THE KIDS ARE GOING BACK TO SCHOOL!!!

Before you start dreaming about days filled with zero  exasperating “I’m bored” sighs, it’s prep time.  Getting those critters school-ready means school supplies, school clothes, packing lunches, etc.  I’ve got you covered, though.  Over the years, I’ve managed to put a few tricks up my sleeve {these days, I will watch the kids trudge to the bus stop with their over-filled backpacks from the comfort of my front window–with an honest mixture of nostalgia and relief!}.

Before you start the shopping frenzy that is back to school, check out a couple of organizational tips to get you off on the right foot.  A little planning goes a long way–especially if you are into stretching your dollar to its fullest.

For my kids, all that summer vitamin D usually equated to a massive growth spurt.  Their jeans became high-waters and their shirts got a little snug by September.  That usually meant a wardrobe overall {Mavis-style, of course}.  Before you head out and spend hundreds, though, I highly recommend you get creative with your clothing purchases and trades.  Between consignment stores, friends and neighbors, your kiddos could potentially have a really nice new-to-them wardrobe, and you’ll have more money in your pocket to get that morning latte as you kick them out the door on the first day of school.

Once  you’ve got them outfitted, it’s time to think about how you are going to feed their faces, and still feel good about yourself as their nutritional advocate {that’s a fancy way of saying it all falls on you :)}.  Bento boxes are perfect for little hands and they make lunch time a little more fun.  Move over everyday PB&J, there’s new items on the menu.

Okay, let’s be honest for minute, shall we?  I know and you know that the first month or so of school, we all commit to healthy amazing breakfasts.  After that, it’s cereal or toast…or really whatever they are willing to put in their mouth before you rush out of the door.  That’s why I’ve assembled 36 Back to School Breakfast Ideas.  After 36 days, feel free to resume business as usual–you’ll get no judgement from me!

New schools, transitions to middle or high school, etc. can all equate to high back-to-school nerves.  Nobody wants nervous-diarrhea on the first day of school.  It’s a fact.  So, help your critters manage their anxiety with a few preemptive tricks and tips.

Let the fun begin!

~Mavis