So… summer’s been all late nights, loose rules, and “sure, have another popsicle.” And now we’re supposed to just… pivot to school mode?
The trick is easing into it. Start nudging bedtime earlier a little at a time. Same with mornings. Nobody needs a 6am shock to the system.
Sell up the good stuff, too. Friends, new teachers, fresh supplies—basically the social season of elementary school. If it’s a new school, go check it out ahead of time.
Let them pick out their gear—backpack, notebooks, the all-important “cool” water bottle. Suddenly, they’re invested. Sneaky, right?
And maybe do a quick refresher on life skills.
Talk through what school actually looks like—taking turns, being kind, etc. And give them space to say if they’re nervous. Totally normal.
Oh—and start dialing back the summer screen marathon. That one hurts a little.
First day? Don't forget to take the picture. Ask what they’re excited about. Pretend you’re not a little emotional.
Then once school starts, expect a few bumps. Big changes, little humans. Celebrate the small wins… and maybe keep the popsicles on standby.
Find more great tips and tricks HERE!
Photo by Tati Odintsova on Unsplash