Unraveling the mystery of “readiness” is a matter of 1-2-3. It is not that difficult but the most important thing to remember is to not let the preparation rob your family of truly enjoying the remaining time between “now” and “then.” Summer is short enough as it is.
Here are 3 smart ways to be really ready for the new school year:
1. Calendar – first get a picture of what has to happen each day before school starts. Get out a calendar and see.* What dates cannot be missed?
- Doctors appointments for school physicals or dental visits?
- What day IS the first day of school anyway?
- Is it a full day or a half day?
- Will there be bussing?
- Is there a parents meeting you must attend?
- How about school sports? Do you have the paperwork completed?
- Family events – are there celebrations that should be written down?
- Family vacation – if you have one coming up, it has to be part of the scene.
First, those unmovable dates must be written down for you to be able schedule other “must-dos” such as hair appointments and shopping trips. Do that!
*If the school calendar has not been mailed to you, it can probably be found online. You will need to have it in order to do this right.
- 9:00 am – Kids doctor -bring the physical form for them to complete
- 10:30 am – Drycleaners -remember to drop off winter coat!
- 11:00 am – Mall -buy kids sneakers; bring your 50% off coupon!
Mom Tip #1: those little side trips are best done with the cell phone turned off. It is so tempting to get some texts or calls in while the kids play but don’t. Focus on the great time they are having and interact with them, unempeded.
You will be glad and so will they!
3. Timer – this is my favorite. Have you ever started a project only to be sidetracked, losing the whole day? My greatest trap is getting caught in reminescing as I plow through clutter. If I spend to much time going down “Memory Lane,” the job NEVER gets done. A timer will curb that.
Go into your projects -such as sorting through school clothes to find out what still fits- with determination and a timer. Knowing that you only have 15 minutes or an hour will help you stay on task. If you have lots more time to work with, cut it up into 30 minute segments.
When the timer rings, check your progress, set goals and refocus. The timer ringing will also give you permission to take a break for a snack or a meal – you can check your email at that time. DO BE SURE TO SET THE TIMER ON YOUR BREAK, or you may never get back to the job at hand.
Mom Tip 2: what kind of memories do you want to make on those last days of summer?
- Going to the pool one more time?
- Having a last summer cookout?
- Taking a final daytrip to see some sights?
Nothing wrong with that. It’s great to celebrate the end of a wonderful summer and start of a new school year. Be sure it happens – plan it and write it down!
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