We know every season comes with anticipation and worry. Right now, more than ever, we need ways to cope with feelings of guilt, confusion, frustration and anxiety while facing so many unknowns. Whether you have school aged kids or littles, there is so much to try and plan for. We want you to know you are not alone and we are here for you! Here are 3 things you can do right now to prepare for fall and to help ease the worry.
1. Routine. What’s that? All our routines have been thrown out the door for months! But you can start to ease back into a fall routine a little at at time. Building structure will help enforce security that kids (and you) need. Start by waking up and going to bed at a set time, the same time that you would for school days. Starting now will make that first week back to school so much easier!
2. Ease up on screen time. During these days of quarantine, pandemic and online school, screen time was an essential and necessary “go to.” With school around the corner, start to ease up on the amount of time your kids are on their devices. Have a conversation and set guidelines for the upcoming school year. If your child will be attending school online, it will be especially important to give them a break from the screen. Start the process now, so it becomes a new habit and is not a surprise! If your kids are older, have them give you input on the appropriate amount of time and what social media they will spend that time on. Get buy in from them so they feel like they are part of the plan.
3. Unwind together. After a long day of work, play and school, everyone needs time to unwind. Pick a time at night for the family to relax together. Maybe it is reading a favorite book, a walk or bike ride, chilling on the couch with a fave show. Whatever you choose, make that part of the new routine and something everyone can look forward to.
You got this Mom! Let's link arms and face fall together!