Refusing to Let Back-to-School Mornings Get the Best of Me

As the school year kicks off, the chaos of early mornings can be overwhelming. With my four kids, it often feels like a circus act just to get everyone out the door. Here’s how I’ve decided to tackle the madness.

1. Breakfast Battles

One of my biggest stressors is ensuring my kids have a good breakfast before heading to school. If they skip it, I can expect one of three things: a grumpy pick-up mood, a note from the teacher asking if we need help because my child claims to be starving, or my son raiding the pantry before dawn. Plus, if they’re not fueled up, their ability to focus in class goes down the drain—and that’s a problem since they’re there to learn.

Solution: Prepped Breakfasts

I’ve been diving into Pinterest for quick and easy breakfast ideas that can be prepped in advance. Think breakfast burritos, baked egg cups, and slow-cooker oatmeal; they now live on my Back-to-School board. If I can stick to my prep schedule, mornings might just become a little sweeter. And if I drop the ball, well, there’s always Pop-Tarts. This strategy works for lunch prep too!

2. Supply Chain Issues

My kids love to procrastinate when it comes to homework, claiming they can’t find the supplies they need. Pencils are broken or missing, the paper supply is low, and the scissors are nowhere to be found.

Solution: Create a Homework Station

I read about making a homework caddy on Pinterest that holds all the essentials—paper, pencils, scissors, glue sticks, markers, you name it. I’ll get it decorated and take a cute Instagram pic. Once homework is done, I’ll stash it away to keep my kids from pilfering supplies for their crafty escapades without permission. Plus, setting up a designated homework spot, like the kitchen table or their desks, keeps the chaos contained.

3. Daily Surprises

Between four kids, juggling their schedules feels like a high-wire act. I often find myself panicking over forgotten activities, such as a specific T-shirt day or snack contributions. Other parents might think I’m winging it, but I assure you, I’m just trying to keep it together here!

Solution: A Big Ole Calendar (BOC)

I plan on putting a giant calendar on the wall to note all important events for everyone to see. I’ll transfer everything from my phone to this BOC so we can keep track of it all. The kids will know that the calendar is off-limits, just like my phone. Boundaries are key!

4. Fashion Fiascos

Two of my kids care a lot about their outfits, while the other two can never find their clean clothes—despite me doing the laundry. Mornings often devolve into a battle over what to wear.

Solution: Lay Out Clothes the Night Before

I’ve started laying out their outfits the night before, down to shoes and socks. They even like to tuck their underwear into their pants. This way, everything is ready to go without the stress of a last-minute clothing hunt.

With these plans in place, I’m aiming for a smoother start to the school year. Good intentions may not always lead to perfection, but at least my kids will have breakfast before embarking on their daily adventures!

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Summary

Managing back-to-school mornings can be a challenge, but with some preparation—like making premade breakfasts, organizing a homework station, keeping a visible calendar, and laying out clothes the night before—mornings can be less chaotic.