[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Intro Text” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n
Here we are again! \u00a0Hard to believe that the “Back to School Season” has arrived. \u00a0And I do mean season, because as a mom AND teacher, it definitely feels that way! \u00a0Just like any season, there are pros and cons. \u00a0Over the years, I have worked really hard to turn the cons into at least neutrals, if not pros!<\/strong><\/p>\n Let’s chat today about some ideas for making this a season to celebrate…and set us up for success as we head back to school!<\/strong><\/p>\n If you don’t have kids in school, I hope you’ll share this blog with a family or neighbor who could use a little hope in this season!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Intro Text” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n Let’s get started!<\/strong> <\/em>\u00a0Here are 7 back to school tips that have helped our family over the years and hopefully they will help you too! \u00a0Whether you have little ones who are still at home, multiple children in school, homeschooling, or even have grandchildren who could benefit, I think there is something here for everyone!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Back-to-School-11-768×1024.jpg” title_text=”Back to School (11)” admin_label=”IMG” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip One” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip One” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n Wait, Robyn. \u00a0You’re supposed to be giving us practical tips as we head back to school.<\/p>\n I get it! \u00a0But trust me. \u00a0There is no tip more practical or more important than grace.<\/strong><\/p>\n Grace for your spouse as they make the back to school transition. \u00a0Grace for your children who may be nervous about a new class this year. Grace for the teacher…hands down, teaching is one of the most under-paid, emotionally and physically exhausting, and\u00a0rewarding<\/em><\/strong> jobs out there. \u00a0And your child’s teacher is going to need a lot of grace from you.<\/p>\n Why grace?<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Back-to-School-3-768×1024.jpg” title_text=”Back to School (3)” admin_label=”IMG” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip One” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n Because those new shoes that you planned ahead for and ordered in advance aren’t going to fit on the first day of school. The picture-perfect back to school photo? \u00a0Someone is going to blink. \u00a0The new backpack is going to get a broken zipper within the first week. \u00a0Your child is going to forget their lunch\u00a0on the first day<\/em>. \u00a0Your spouse is going to forget to pick up that physical needed by the office. \u00a0You’ll be disappointed with the homework policy and you won’t agree with the way the teacher handled that playground disagreement. \u00a0You’ll need grace and lots of it.<\/strong><\/p>\n Last, but not least, grace for yourself. \u00a0You’ve got this!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip Two1″ _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip Two2″ _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n Okay. \u00a0We are a lot “extra” on this tip. \u00a0I should say that I am a lot “extra” on this tip. \u00a0I’ll blame it on being a teacher and an overly-organized, type A personality. \u00a0That being said, I know the huge difference it has made for our family to get really detailed with our schedules and expectations.<\/p>\n A couple weeks before school begins, I set aside a few hours for planning. \u00a0I take a big calendar page and write out everyone’s lesson, sports, and extra-curricular activities.<\/strong> \u00a0I also make a detailed list of everyone’s daily chores. \u00a0Then, as a family, we sit and block it all out.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Back-to-School-9-scaled.jpg” title_text=”Back to School (9)” admin_label=”IMG” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip Two3″ _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n For example, all three of our kids need to practice piano each day. \u00a0This used to be very frustrating because we didn’t have a schedule for it and everyone would decide they wanted to practice at the same time. \u00a0By working together to block out these kinds of details, each of us have clear expectations about the needs of our whole family.<\/strong> \u00a0I like to think that this process is also teaching our children that the world…and our family…doesn’t revolve around one person’s needs. \u00a0It’s a team effort!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip Two4″ _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n It is also important to us that our children learn time management, responsibility, and independence. \u00a0Having detailed schedules sets our children up for learning those life skills. \u00a0And it also means a lot less nagging from Mom and Dad. \u00a0Double win!<\/p>\n Even if your children are too young to read or maybe aren’t even in school, this can be incredibly valuable. \u00a0There is a reason that picture schedules are hung in every early childhood classroom! \u00a0<\/strong>Most children thrive with consistent and manageable routines. \u00a0They can learn valuable lessons, even at very early ages, about time management and responsibility. \u00a0Will they need a lot of guidance? \u00a0Of course! \u00a0But by the time they do start school, they will be in a routine of following a schedule that works\u00a0for the whole family.<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Back-to-School-7-768×1024.jpg” title_text=”Back to School (7)” admin_label=”IMG” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip Two” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n At the very real risk of having you think I am totally crazy, I’ll give you an example of one of our children’s morning schedule. \u00a0It is super detailed. \u00a0This helps him to know what he should be doing, without constant direction and reminders. \u00a0It helps me, as the parent, to be able to focus on my morning tasks without constant interruptions too!<\/p>\n See? \u00a0Overly detailed. \u00a0But our mornings tend to run very smoothly and we all get to school on time without undue stress. \u00a0What can I say? \u00a0It works for us! \u00a0You may not need this extensive detail (though our kids love it and ask for it). \u00a0But even minimal scheduling and expectations can make a big difference!<\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip Two” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n OCD much, Robyn? \u00a0<\/em>Yep! \u00a0But you know what, I don’t spend *most* school mornings frantically\u00a0trying to get everyone (and myself) out the door. \u00a0I’ll take it!<\/i><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip Three” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip Three” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n I know, I know. \u00a0I don’t like to think about the back to school season any earlier than necessary. \u00a0But there is a noticeable difference in how both I and my children all feel about the first day of school when we have prepared in advance.<\/strong> \u00a0While there are practical reasons, such as time to make sure those new uniforms and shoes fit and securing the “perfect pencils” before the shelves are cleared by everyone else waiting till the last minute, there are also emotional benefits.<\/p>\n It is healthy for everyone to start getting excited about going back to school. \u00a0For my kids, this starts with choosing backpacks and school supplies. \u00a0I feel more confident when I have a handle on the schedules and I know things are prepared. \u00a0Planning ahead almost always has more pros than cons!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Back-to-School-8-768×1024.jpg” title_text=”Back to School (8)” admin_label=”IMG” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip Three” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n Here is an approximate checklist of things I try to do ahead of time:<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip Four” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip Four” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n This is a much easier one than tips one, two, and three! \u00a0Who doesn’t love treats?!<\/p>\n Your attitude for the back to school season really sets the tone for your whole family. \u00a0I’ll be the first to admit that some years it is a true struggle. \u00a0Even though I love my job and I love the routine of the school year, I’ve taught long enough and had kids in school long enough to know the exhausting, frustrating, and downright disappointing days are going come. \u00a0(Fortunately, more good than bad!!! \u00a0But still…)<\/p>\n However, I have also noticed when I’ve let my poor attitude spill over to my family. \u00a0Since we have to do this thing, let’s make the most of it! \u00a0And for sure, I want my kids to love learning and love their educational experiences!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Back-to-School-2-768×1024.jpg” title_text=”Back to School (2)” admin_label=”IMG” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip Four” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n One fun way to help build the excitement and celebration is with fun treats. \u00a0I tried the lunchbox notes and I was really bad at remembering those. \u00a0Now that my children fix their own snacks and have hot lunch at school, those don’t really work. \u00a0But they are a super cute idea!<\/p>\n Think of little ways to celebrate<\/strong>…a $1 ice cream cone after the first week of school. \u00a0Surprise donuts for that first Monday. \u00a0A family bowling trip after the first test. \u00a0It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive. \u00a0But\u00a0celebrate! \u00a0<\/em><\/strong>It’s more fun for everyone!<\/p>\n And celebrate your children’s teachers too (even if its yourself, homeschool moms!) I like to get $5 coffee gift cards to send at the end of the first week. \u00a0You can find a cute printable for that HERE<\/a><\/strong><\/span>.<\/p>\n Click HERE<\/a><\/strong><\/span>\u00a0to subscribe to the blog and get a free printable for both teachers and for a first day of school treat for your kids too!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip Five” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip Five” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n Yes, I remember that in Tip #2 for Back to School I waxed eloquent about the importance of schedules. \u00a0And that’s why Tip #5 is so important to me.<\/p>\n Your family…and yourself…need white space. \u00a0You need blocks of time that are reserved for nothing. \u00a0Robb refers to it as his big “Nothing Box”. \u00a0<\/p>\n My over-detailed personality can easily forget Tip #5. \u00a0So I am putting it in writing in this blog post to help myself remember. \u00a0<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Back-to-School-10-scaled.jpg” title_text=”Back to School (10)” admin_label=”IMG” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip Five” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n This might look like Friday night pizza and a movie. \u00a0Or an intentionally slow Saturday morning. \u00a0It might look like scheduling a trip to the beach on Sunday afternoon or a family walk after dinner. \u00a0It might be all together or by yourself (I try to have some of both every week).<\/p>\n You’re working hard and your kids are also working hard. \u00a0School is their “job”, so to speak. \u00a0And everyone needs a break from their job on a routine basis. \u00a0As the gatekeeper of my family’s schedule, I am intentionally making this a priority.<\/p>\n It isn’t always easy. \u00a0Sometimes it’s an uncomfortable no to a family dinner or excusing ourselves from a group activity. \u00a0Sometimes it’s forcing myself to put away my lesson plan book and save that work for the next day. \u00a0Sometimes it is helping your child politely say no to a birthday party (that’s a tough one, but sometimes it must be done).<\/p>\n Whatever it looks like for your family, be intentional and purposeful about protecting your family time and “white space.” \u00a0It is essential.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip Six” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip Six” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n Whether it is the kitchen island, a desk in the home office, or a cute table in the bedroom, your child needs an intentional space for school work.<\/strong> \u00a0A lot of frustration can be eliminated at homework time when pencils and erasers are readily available (pick up some extra packs for home when you buy school supplies!) and there is a distraction-free area to work. \u00a0When the weather allows, I often send my kids outside for their reading homework time. \u00a0Make it fun but also purposeful.<\/p>\n I use a vintage tool caddy for a portable “homework” caddy. \u00a0I keep it stocked with pencils, erasers, glue sticks, erasable colored pencils, and washable crayons (hyperlink all of these). \u00a0Eliminating all the little irritations can just help things run more smoothly…for everyone!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Back-to-School-6-768×1024.jpg” title_text=”Back to School (6)” admin_label=”IMG” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip Seven” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tip Seven” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n Yes. \u00a0It’s worth repeating. \u00a0Because from tips 2-6, you might have forgotten to give yourself lots and lots of grace.<\/p>\n Big hugs and best wishes for a successful and happy school year. \u00a0And remember, success isn’t always a letter or a number. \u00a0It’s in a lot of little moments worth celebrating! \u00a0You’ve got this!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Back-to-School-4-scaled.jpg” title_text=”Back to School (4)” admin_label=”IMG” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Follow Me” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n I’d love for you to follow me on social media! \u00a0You can find my home decor inspiration on Instagram<\/strong><\/a>, Pinterest<\/a>,\u00a0<\/strong>and\u00a0Facebook<\/a>! \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Closing” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px”]<\/p>\n Blessings,<\/strong><\/p>\n#1 Tip for Back to School<\/h2>\n
Grace upon Grace.<\/em><\/h3>\n
\u00a0<\/h3>\n
Tip #2 for Back to School<\/h2>\n
Work together…as a family…to plan for success.<\/em><\/h3>\n
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Tip #3 for Back to School<\/h2>\n
Plan ahead for that first day of school. \u00a0It matters…a lot!<\/em><\/h3>\n
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Tip #4 for Back to School<\/h2>\n
Treats for everyone!<\/em><\/h3>\n
Tip #5 for Back to School<\/h2>\n
Schedule white space.<\/em><\/h3>\n
Tip #6 for Back to School<\/h2>\n
Create intentional spaces at home for work and play.<\/em><\/h3>\n
Tip #7 for Back to School<\/h2>\n
Grace upon Grace.<\/em><\/h3>\n
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