By Tia Cristy
By Tia Cristy
As Summer
As Summer
Ends...
Ends...
The end of summer hits like that last wave at the beach
—it’s fun until it knocks you over and you realize oh no,
school is coming. The shift from lazy mornings and
popsicles to packed lunches and school forms can feel
like a sprint in flip-flops. But with a little planning, you
can help your kids get back in the groove and keep your
sanity intact. Yes, you matter too. Here's how to prep
the kids for school without forgetting about yourself.
1. Start the Transition Early (Yes, Now)
We’re talking bedtime, wake-up routines, and weaning
off those endless screen-time binges. Begin adjusting
the family’s schedule gradually—try moving bedtime 15
minutes earlier each night until you’re back on school
hours. This helps reset everyone's internal clock
(including yours) so that the first week back doesn’t feel
like jet lag from a trip to “Planet Summer.”
2. Involve the Kids in Prep
School prep isn’t just about notebooks and new shoes.
It's about mindset. Let your kids choose some of their
supplies and organize their space. Giving them
ownership makes them more excited (or at least less
resistant). Ask how they feel about going back—whether
it’s nerves, excitement, or “meh”—and listen without
rushing to fix it. That conversation counts as prep too.
How to Prep Kids for Back-to-School
While Still Practicing Self-Care
SHE TALKS | 72