It’s the time of year where the teacher in me always kicks in. The start of a new school year should be exciting (right?), but the parent comments I hear too often describe frantic mornings, hectic evenings, and plain bad memories: “Homework wars…lost library books…last-minute assignments…missed buses…forgotten lunches…late starts.” But it doesn’t have to—nor should it–be that way.

Here’s are a few practical solutions to the most common back-to-school, hot button parenting hassles. Not only will using them help make the upcoming school year more positive and less stressful for the whole family, but they’ll also teach kids to be more responsible (which just happens to be an essential trait of a successful student). And you can start making these simple adjustments now so the start of school really is smoother and happier for all.
The real secret is commit to making one simple change and then stick with it. Just one switch can make a big difference in your family.

Hassle 1. Morning franticness Solution: Create sanity savers for your biggest nightmares
Cut the morning frenzy by having kids place backpacks (with lunch money, sharing, finished homework) at the front door before bed. School clothes can be laid out at night. Put out bowls, spoons, cups and cereal boxes the night before. Then just pour in contents that morning.

Hassle 2. You’re always your kids’ Palm Pilot Solution: Hang a large monthly calendar

If your child used you as his personal manager, buy a large white board and grease pens. Each child can mark his own weekly music lessons, soccer practice, field trips, sharing days, and spelling tests. Little kids can draw picture reminders of play dates. List your schedule as well.

Hassle 3. Late morning starts; sleepy heads Solution: Buy alarm clocks and teach kids to use
If you recall spending your mornings last year screaming “WAKE UP!” (over and over and over), it’s time to get your kids to take ownership. Buy each a simple-to-use alarm clock, and then teach them how to set it, so you don’t have to be their “Big Ben.” And start putting your kids to bed earlier now—remember, their summer hours have put most of them on a different time zone. Those school wake-ups are going to be a rude awakening for all!

Hassle 4. Missing & lost schools supplies Solution: Brainstorm a solution & implement
Identify last year’s one reoccurring hot-button issue: Misplaced library books? Sports gear? Coat and mittens? This year get your kids involved to solve one issue at a time. Identify the problem, and then brainstorm a simple solution such as: a box by the door to “catch” those library books, a large hook for coats, a bin for sports gear, an extra set of car keys (for you), and then implement.

Hassle 5. Frantic or missed breakfasts Solution: Find quicker, healthier snacks
If breakfast time is frantic and your kids seem to be missing the “most-important meal,” search for quick, healthy alternatives. Instant oatmeal in a cup, bananas, and juice boxes can be ready to grab-and-go. Extra protein bars can be stashed in backpacks for just-in-case hunger cravings. >

Hassle 6. Lost teacher notes, notices, and schedules Solution: Make a specific place
Set a new family policy: “Walk in, open your backpack, and put any notes or graded papers in the basket.” Then put a basket near that door, and consistently check it nightly. Tend to those needing your signature, and put them ASAP inside your child’s backpack for next day delivery.

Hassle 7. Homework wars Solution: Set a homework routine & place from the start
Announce your rules, post on the fridge, and stick to them. “Work first, then play.” “TV only on weekends (or only one show).” “No phone or IM’s until work done.” Now create a special homework spot with good lighting and reasonably quiet, and have your kid help stock a bin or box with necessary supplies (pens, pencils, paper, scissors) to have handy. No more frantic searching for supplies and putting off doing the work. Do get a tutor ASAP if your child is having trouble (consider a high school student). It will do wonders for your relationship.

Hassle 8: Parental rescuing Solution: Set a new house rule: “No more excuses”
Back off, Mom. Halt the rescues. Your kids need to take ownership and stop relying on you as their savior. After all, homework, sports gear, library books are your kid’s responsibility, not yours. Your new family mantra is: “Never do for your kid what your kid can do for himself.”

Whatever was your “reoccuring nightmare” - or just momentary stressor, I hope you find a simple remedy so this year is a great back to school start for you and your kids!

Michele Borba