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Back to School Made Easier!

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Back-to-school season brings new teachers, new schedules and plenty of excitement, but it can also bring rushed mornings, forgotten homework and the dreaded 9:30 p.m. announcement: “I need poster board tomorrow!” Fortunately, a few simple changes around the house can make the school week easier for everyone. Start with a grab-and-go snack station by dedicating a refrigerator drawer or pantry basket to easy choices kids can grab themselves. String cheese, yogurt, grapes, bananas, whole-grain crackers, popcorn, hummus and cut vegetables are convenient options. Preparing several portions on Sunday can save valuable time throughout the week, and older children can help choose their snacks.​

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One of the easiest ways to reduce morning chaos is to start the morning the night before. Have everyone choose clothes, pack backpacks, find shoes and prepare lunches before bedtime. Create a designated spot near the door for backpacks, sports equipment, instruments and anything else that needs to leave the house. A simple homework station can also help. You don't need an elaborate home office—just fill a portable container with pencils, crayons, scissors, glue, paper and other commonly needed supplies. And keep some poster board around. Eventually, you're probably going to need it!

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The daily ride to and from school can become family time rather than simply another chore. Create a morning playlist, play trivia or “Name That Song,” or let your child become the family DJ. After school, instead of asking the traditional “How was school?” try something more specific, such as “What was the funniest thing that happened today?” or “What was the best part of your day?” You may discover that these questions lead to much better conversations.​

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It's also important to give children something fun to anticipate during the school week. Try Taco Tuesday, a Wednesday family walk, Thursday game night or Friday pizza-and-movie night. A bike ride, backyard game or evening walk can help everyone unwind after a busy day. At the same time, don't overschedule the family. Sports and extracurricular activities are wonderful, but children need downtime too. Leave some afternoons open for playing outside, reading, relaxing or simply doing nothing.​​

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Finally, keep one family calendar for school events, appointments, practices and projects. Spend five minutes each Sunday reviewing the coming week together. Back-to-school success isn't about creating the perfect routine. It's about eliminating little headaches, planning ahead and remembering to leave some room for fun.