Back-to-school is practically a season in and of itself. Each year, it’s filled with pitfalls and anticipation. So many emotions bouncing off one another. Since the pandemic lockdowns were set in place, back-to-school is far more fraught than ever. So much contradictory advice. So much confusion and conflict.
You and your kids are learning as you go these days. But that does not mean things have to be negative or unhappy. With a healthy dose of back-to-school teamwork, you can maintain family fun. Let’s take a look at some of the many options at your disposal.
8 Tips to Build Some Back-to-School Teamwork & Maintain Family Fun
1. Create a Countdown
Build some excitement as the big day nears. If you have more than one child, there may be more than one big day. Either way, work with your children to decide if you want something like a centrally located chalkboard. Perhaps you’re more of a digital family and would prefer phone reminders. However you do it, there’s plenty of fun to be had through the magic of a countdown.
2. Give the Kids Room to Shop
Whether it’s school clothes or supplies, don’t follow your kids around the store. Within reason, give them some autonomy. The more input they have, the more engaged they will be in the back-to-school process.
3. Create a Vision Board
What goals do the kids have for this upcoming school year? Where do they see themselves by the holiday break? How about next summer? Make space on your wall for each child to set up a visualization of their plans and aspirations.
4. Prepare in Advance For School Night Bedtime
Particularly for younger children, it pays to ease into a new sleep schedule. Don’t try to do it all at once. Phase into this school-year pattern with as much advance time as you believe you need. Less fussing and fighting leaves more room for fun.
5. Slowly Introduce Screen Time Rules
Here’s another phased entry. Your children may have gotten quite used to using their phones as much as they wish when school was out. Take a logical and fair approach when it comes to recalibrating to leave room for homework and sleep.
6. Celebrate School Year’s Eve
Turn the night before Day One into a holiday! Every family member gets to help plan the festivities. Shoot videos, take lots of photos and create new memories.
7. First Night Show and Tell
The teamwork doesn’t end once classes commence. So, on Night One, give each child a chance to talk about their experiences and expectations. Set up an old-school show-and-tell experience.
8. Set Up a Family Q&A Space
Every school semester is a very fluid affair. Let each child know there is always space to ask questions and request changes. You may even want to set up a question box for such events. Children must be reminded that their opinions will be validated and heard with respect.
If Neither Teamwork nor Family Fun Can Be Found
Even the best of intentions can go awry. Raising a family can be a daunting task. Doing so under the current conditions can be a Herculean task. There is no shame in asking for help and support. Working with an experienced therapist is an excellent option if you need support on this front.
Your weekly sessions will serve as a workshop of sorts. You can air out grievances and create new approaches. Such a commitment will enhance the quality of your life. Your entire family will reap the rewards, too. If back-to-school feels overwhelming, let’s talk. Read more about parent and family therapy and let’s set up a confidential consultation.
Getting Started With Family Counseling in Lakewood & Longmont Colorado
We invite you to call us at 720-551-4553 for a free 20-minute phone consultation. You can schedule your appointment via phone, email, or the contact page on our website. We offer both in-person and online family counseling. We’re open to whichever option you feel more comfortable with. We look forward to hearing from you!