#backtoschool

I know I'm not alone when I say that September snuck up on us right when we were beginning to enjoy summer. Though there are many great aspects attached to September like the cooler weather, the awesome flavor choices for coffee, the activities, school supplies, new clothes and of course the start of an entirely new year. It is our chance to help our little ones have their best year yet. With that said, there are a few pointers I'd like to share with you all to ensure that this year rolls out as smoothly as possible.

Here are a few pointers to help you:

1. Make sure you have an organized schedule that is visible for the entire family to reference. This should include activities, appointments and commitments. It is important for kids to be reacquainted with the new school schedule for the year.

2. Prioritize homework completion before engaging in play or any sorts after school this way when its time to have dinner, take a bath and relax your kids aren't stressing themselves or you out over having to complete an assignment.

3. That being said, it is important to take breaks. Once the child arrives at home it would be a good idea to have a snack and relax a little before beginning their homework but that break should not last more than 30 to 40 minutes.

4. Be supportive of your child no matter the situation. It is imperative that your child knows you are cheering him or her on no matter what. Also, in doing so make sure to keep a close relationship with your child's teacher in order to ensure optimal support.

5. Provide your children especially smaller children warnings at the beginning, middle and ending of activities. For example: if your child is playing on the Ipad, tell them: "you have 10 minutes left". This way so that when time is over, they will be expecting it and it won't be like you are snatching the activity away from them.

6. Lastly, do not forget to take at least 30 minutes of the day for YOU time. Some may be reading this and saying, where in the world am I supposed to find 30 minutes but trust me when I say that those 30 minutes are what recharge you for the next day. In a way there are a positive reinforcement because you will look forward to them every day and they truly allow you to de-stress and unwind.