Back to School Tips

It's back to school time! Dylan is starting preschool this year, although he is going to be attending only on Saturdays. With the start of the school year around the corner for myself, also, I am coordinating a million things at one time!

Here are some of the strategies I am using to stay sane (and tips for you, too!)

1) Don't overschedule yourself. Never overschedule yourself, or your child, especially during times of chaos when one of the parent is supplementing their full-time schedule with college courses. What we have done is postpone swimming until the end of November, and are pursuing soccer. Nate really wanted to do both, but we just don't have the time.

2) Menu plan ahead of time. I know that it seems like a difficult task to take on, but having a recipe book of about 40 recipes, a calendar, and accompanying shopping list is a huge help during those weeknights when you are struggling to put something together for dinner. Also, it will save you money - eating at home is always less difficult. Use Tastyplanner.com for these things.

3) Have a 30minute, night-before planning time. Take out the kids clothes, pack their bags, get lunches ready, layout your own clothes, look at your calendar and your to do list. This will help counter the morning struggles.

4) Delegate. Make sure you keep a list on the refrigerator about who is responsible for what chores.

5) Hire a housecleaner. You don't need to have a service come in and spend exhorbent amounts of money for you to have a housecleaner. Find a struggling college student, and have them come in at least every two weeks to give your house a clean. No, they aren't as thorough as a housecleaning service, but if you are broke - the help is well worth it.