Back to school

I can't believe that school has started already and that my kids are now 3rd and 1st graders. Boy, the time goes by quickly! It seems that when school starts, lives get busier. With homework and after-school activities, sometimes it's hard to squeeze dinner in there! It's hard enough when you have one child, but juggling 2 or more can be even harder.

Here are some recommendations for creating a schedule that's not too hard on you or your children:

1. Don't sign your children up for too many after school activities per week. Kids need some free time to just play and so often they are on the go from when school gets out until close to bedtime. If your child wants to do karate and soccer and tennis, maybe spread them out over several seasons so they are not doing all 3 activities at the same time. If you have more than one child, I would suggest letting the child pick one activity that he is most interested in doing and work that into your schedule. Then there is still time for playdates, homework, etc.

2. Before you commit to your schedule, map it out on paper to make sure that it is feasible. Wouldn't it be awful to have signed up for classes just to find out that it's too much and impossible to get from Point A to Point B in the amount of time allowed? Then your child will be disappointed if you tell him that you have to cancel his activity and everyone will be stressed out.

3. When you are arranging your schedule, pencil in "homework time" so that it is part of the schedule. This way, there are no fights about when homework should be done. It's done on such and such a day, and that's it! :)

4. Make sure to allot time for snacks. I know that when my kids get home from school they are really hungry. I always make sure they have time to eat a good snack before their after school activity. Otherwise, I have a very cranky child.

5. Make sure your child gets enough sleep. If you find that your child is grumpy or tired during the week, maybe she is not getting enough sleep. Try an early bedtime by moving it back 15 minutes per night until it is at the desired time.


I hope that you and your children have a wonderful school year!