Sometimes, at the start of the new school year, we must open our hands and turn loose. Remember, however, that mental and emotional support is vital for your kiddos. They will have bad days. Provide opportunities for them to talk, and let them feel safe doing so. Everyone's life will be better!
Plan an adventure for the final days of summer. Research age-appropriate items you can find at the mall or other stores, and when you arrive, have your kiddos go on a search. A book or toy, perhaps, and the first one to find theirs gets the book or toy, or a treat at the ice cream shop! (Older children can snap photos with their phones, while younger ones might need to point them out to you.)
For your kiddos, not you! You may look forward to the end of summer, but your kids less so. Organize loot bags with other parents or just you and yours. Call it a Return-to-School Party, with party snacks and fun, back-to-school supplies to pass out. You'll be the coolest parent around.
Summer takes a toll on our finances. Now is the time to shift gears and invest a portion of your paycheck (or your spouse's) for upcoming holiday trips. Pay yourself first and enjoy the benefits later!
Spring cleaning is all the rage, but you can schedule a cleaning day anytime! Summer tracks in a lot of the outdoors, and now is a good time to make a clean sweep of it, pun intended. Take one day or spread it over two weekends. Your home will be better for it!