It seems like every year the summer goes by faster and faster. To be honest, I love the break we single moms get in the summer. Let's face it, no homework for our kids, is a break for us.
But the lazy days of summer are over, and now we are back to those rigorous schedules. So here are a couple of tips to help you get back into the swing of things.
One of the greatest stress relievers for the single mom as she sends her child off to school is to pray over them every morning. "Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them." Deuteronomy 4:9 NIV
Here are some other tips to help make for a smoother transition:
1. Prepare the night before. Establish a spot to put all book bags, jackets, shoes etc., each night so you won't have to search for them in the morning. Set out children's clothes or have them do it for the next day. Spending an extra five minutes the night before school will help eliminate frustration and rushing in the morning.
2. Packing lunches? Prepare ahead. Use 1-gallon storage bags, clearly labeled with the child's name and day of the week. Add all the non-perishable items over the weekend for the whole week, such as, apple, granola bar, crackers, fruit snacks, etc. Then each morning you pour the contents into the lunch pail, along with whatever perishable items you need. You can also prepare some perishables ahead of time to keep in the fridge, such as juice and yogurt cups.
3. Keep a spare pack of paper and several pencils in your closet. Kids have a tendency to say, "Mom, I'm out of paper" either just before bed, or as they are walking out the door in the morning. Having a "backup supply" of the most common, inexpensive items definitely reduces frustration.
4. Count your blessings! Once everyone is safely in school, take a moment to thank God for your morning, and focus on all the positives. Remembering God's blessings in the midst of challenges helps you to experience His peace.
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