5 Tips for a Stress-Free Back-to-School Prep
As the new school year approaches, a little preparation can go a long way in easing the transition and reducing stress. Here are five quick tips to help you get organized, declutter, and start the year on the right foot:
Clear Out and Simplify Your Space: A tidy environment leads to a focused mind. Before purchasing new supplies, sort through study areas, bedrooms, and closets. Discard unnecessary items, including old bags and clothes.
Use my One In, One Out Rule: For every new item you bring into your life, let go of something you no longer use or need. Whether it's a new shirt, gadget, or piece of furniture, something in the house has got to go! Make a permanent donation box and fill it up year-round. I recommend WINS Calgary, but there are loads of great organizations you can give to.
Bonus Tip!
Utilize some plastic bins to organize your seasonal items. Pack away clothes like shorts and flip flops that won't be needed in the upcoming fall and winter months. These bins can be conveniently stored in a closet or basement, freeing up valuable space in your everyday living areas.
Create a Vibrant Lunch Schedule: Streamline your school mornings by creating a lunch schedule. Make it fun and creative by designing a captivating template on Canva. Enlist family participation by allowing everyone to select a day and craft the lunch menu. For added convenience, consider prepping meals the night before to alleviate morning rush and stress.
Organize Supplies: Stock up on school essentials, like paper, pencils, and notebooks, and arrange them in clear storage bins. Label the containers to keep them organized and prevent last-minute scrambles. Transparent bins will make it easy to see when items are running low. You can also do this with regular consumables, like personal care items, batteries, and cleaning products.
Set Goals: Help children define achievable academic and personal goals for the year. Break them into smaller milestones, so they can track their progress and stay motivated throughout the year. Here is a helpful template for making SMART goals.
Practice Self-Care: Prioritize self-care to manage stress. Make time for regular physical activity, practice mindfulness, and maintain a healthy sleep routine to ensure you're at your best mentally and physically.
By implementing these simple tips, you can streamline your back-to-school transition, minimize stress, and set the stage for a successful academic year ahead.
