Fall wardrobes have been purchased and the first day of school outfits are neatly organized, ironed (yeah right), and color-coordinated in proper sibling fashion. They might as well be stepping off the pages of a Mini Boden catalog.
But here are a few things that aren’t as obvious as new clothing and fresh school supplies to ensure a wonderful, positive first day!
Set an alarm for THE PHOTO.
You know how fast morning routines can sneak up on you. It’s wake up, potty time, eat, and brush. And poop. And “Oh wait, I can’t find my favorite robot socks.” “Mom, I wanted a top knot, not pigtails.” And before you know it, we are officially late. But not this year! To get a frame-worthy photo, make sure to allot 5 full minutes to get the perfect pic that will live forever in the firstborn’s baby book. Just kidding, make sure to get one of each of them!
Perusing the dollar section at Super Target, I found these amazing First/Last Day of School chalkboards complete with pre-written blocks of favorites, ages, and more. School chalkboards can also be found at Michaels right now for about $5.
Set an intention to practice self-love/self-esteem with morning affirmations.
Did you see that YouTube video that went viral a little over a year ago? Something in it struck a chord and we’ve made our car rides to school just that much sweeter with positive vibes and lots of self-love.
“I can do hard things.”
“I will be nice to everyone I meet today.”
“I’m not better than anybody else, and nobody’s better than me.”
Make it your own and stick with those magical and wonderful traits that are special to your child. It’s amazing what a little contentment in the morning rush can do for the rest of the day.
Give.
Bring the teachers something that says, “Hi, I’m so thankful for you.” Or perhaps, “Summer was long, thank you for taking it from here!”
It’s a quick trip to Target or Starbucks and voila, done. Cookies, fruit, candies, a dozen roses (I’ve seriously seen this one a few times before) and everything else under the sun can be found on Pinterest and packaged up in a cutesy little box adorned with a label made at home on the Cricut! Gift cards and classroom school supplies are always an option and very much appreciated, especially as the kids start to get older.
Prepare for separation anxiety, especially with the littles.
This is something I feel like I’m an expert in. We’ve dealt with separation anxiety within the past year and it’s still fresh in my mind. Check out some amazing tips and tricks and what worked with our son.
Probably the sweetest gift I’ve seen as of late are matching bracelets to serve as a reminder of that beautiful parent-child bond.
“Here are two bracelets,
One big and one small,
For your first day of school that is coming this Fall.
I’ll wear the big one and I’ll think of you.
The small one is yours, so you’ll think of me, too.
Wear it to school while you work and play,
To have my heart with you
While you’re away.”
CUE THE WATERWORKS! What a neat idea for kids of all ages, not just our littles! I’d even venture to guess that some college-bound kiddos would be really honored by this sweet and heartwarming gesture. These are all over Etsy right now in different colors and styles. It would also be a wonderful DIY project to do together with your son or daughter. I don’t think my son would sport a bracelet, so maybe a special keychain for his pants loop or backpack.
What will you be sure to do to ensure a positive first day back to school for your family? Please share with our readers. We always love inspiration and positivity!
