I’ve slowly been making the transition from “Summer Mom,” the fun, relaxed version of myself, to “School Year Mom,” the responsible, routine-oriented version, and it’s been a big change. I have two kids that have to get ready to go back to school, and I’m afraid I should have started earlier because they are having a hard time adjusting. Read the list below, see if you relate, and promise yourself that next year, you’ll start the transition sooner than I did!

Summer Mom

The kids get to sleep in as late as possible
They pick outfits that don’t match (we go out in public like this, and I don’t care)
My daughter is in charge of her hair
Shoes aren’t always mandatory
Breakfast is self-serve
Grocery shopping is sporadic (I don’t love taking two kids to the store)
Meal planning consists of breakfast for dinner and sandwiches at least twice a week
Pajama days happens for all of us
Reading time usually turns into playtime
Baths every other night 
The kids sleep in the same bed all summer
8:00-9:00ish bedtime 
I haven’t looked at my calendar in days…

School Year Mom

Both kids up by 6:15
Outfits that match planned the night before
Proper grooming required (all the rat’s nests must be removed from hair)
Shoes and socks required
Breakfast is prepared (nothing fancy; I just make sure they eat)
Menu planning and grocery shopping happen
The pantry is fully stocked
Homework and reading time are strictly enforced
Baths every night
Separate beds
7:30 bedtime
I refer to my calendar at least three times a day

Big difference, right?

Good luck to all the moms making the same transition.

We can do it!