Back to School, Back to Basics

The waning days of summer are the time for School Year Resolutions. Like their New Years counterparts, these show us at our most conscientious. We will do better. We do want to do what’s right. The good news is that starting off a new academic year really does offer us a clean slate. We can put the systems in place that will make the most of our family’s time, and highlight what we really value.

If, toward the end of last year, your calendar was your adversary, this is the time when it can be your friend. Before the family date book fills up, reserve time to do what matters. Block off a slot for family meals. Make sure to give your kids down time as well as activity time. Build in opportunities for family gatherings and mini-breaks. Maintain children’s routines consistently when possible.

Now, before the crush begins, imagine the ups and downs of each day. Can your child decompress after school? Is there time, and space, allotted to homework? When will your family gather together? How are you going to juggle adult jobs and responsibilities, kids’ jobs and responsibilities, and everyone’s need to relax and enjoy each other? How can you use evenings and weekends for hobbies, interests, together times, treats?

How will the family express its caring and nurturing functions? Who will be responsible for preparing meals, and what can you do to make that experience more pleasurable and meaningful? What short cuts will produce meals that are tasty, nutritious, and within your budget?

Make sure to let your kids know what is expected of them. Tell them why family meals are important (they help us keep track of each other; they are a time to enjoy each other; otherwise, when would we all see each other?)

Of course, as the year goes on, your calendar will get more and more crowded. You will scribble in additions as they arise. But, as any teacher can tell you, it’s easier if you set the rules and expectations ahead of time. That way, when you have to make a quick decision, you will feel comfortable following the guidelines you established way back in the summer, before the school year began.

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