It’s August, which means school is back in session! The back-to-school season can be an exciting time for parents and kids, but it can also be stressful. As the demands of school and daily life increase, it is also a great time to plan routines and discover helpful habits to prepare for the year. See the tips below for managing stress that include meal planning, incorporating mindfulness, and creating boundaries in this busy season!

1. Practice Daily Self-Care:

Amidst the hustle and bustle of school routines, it’s important to prioritize moments of self-care for both parents and kids. Encourage your children to engage in activities they enjoy, whether it’s reading, drawing, or playing outdoors. Parents should also set aside time for themselves, even if it’s just a few minutes each day to unwind, meditate, or take a short walk. Remember, taking care of yourself allows you to better care for your family.

2. Create Boundaries with Social Media

Social media and technology can be both a blessing and a source of stress. Help your children establish healthy boundaries with social media usage. Encourage them to limit screen time and educate them about the potential negative impacts of excessive social media use. Lead by example and consider setting technology-free zones in the house during family time or set your own boundaries with screen time by limiting time on certain apps.

3. Find Support through Connection with other Parents

Navigating the challenges of the back-to-school season is easier when you have a support network. Connect with other parents in your community or through school events. Share experiences, seek advice, and lean on each other during stressful times. Building a supportive community can alleviate feelings of isolation and help you gain new perspectives on common issues. A reminder that you don’t have to go through everything alone!

4. Rest and Recharge

Sleep and rest is essential for both parents and kids to function optimally and manage stress effectively. Ensure your children get enough rest by establishing consistent bedtime routines. For parents, prioritize getting enough sleep, and remember that it’s okay to ask for help when you need extra time to recharge. A well-rested family is better equipped to handle the challenges of the school year.

5. Establish Routines

Routines provide a sense of stability and predictability, which can reduce stress for both parents and children. Create a daily or weekly schedule that includes time for schoolwork, play, and relaxation. Having a routine can minimize chaos and help everyone manage their time more efficiently. If you have teens, ask them to openly communicate their schedules, and ask them what works best for them on when they want to incorporate studying, extracurriculars, and free time throughout the week.

6. Meal Plan

Along with creating routines and managing schedules, it’s important to think about meals for the week! Meal planning can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! Try spending a few minutes each weekend jotting down quick ideas for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks, and use that to write out a grocery list. Then, you’re ready to go for the week! Click here to download our Free, Printable guide to Meal Planning! This includes ideas for meals and snacks, an organized grocery list, and our top tips to simplify meal planning!

7. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a powerful tool for managing stress and enhancing overall well-being. Encourage your children to practice mindfulness techniques like belly breathing and joyful movement. Teach them to recognize and accept all emotions without judgment. For parents, mindfulness can help you stay present in the moment and approach challenges with greater clarity and composure.

 As the back-to-school season approaches, remember that managing stress is important for both parents and kids. By prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, seeking support, resting when needed and establishing routines you can create a healthier and more enjoyable back-to-school experience for the entire family. Remember, small steps can lead to significant positive changes in managing stress during this busy season!

All the best,