Back-To-School Tips When You Have A Newborn
Back to school for your school age child can be stressful as it is, but having a newborn in the house can put a little more added stress to the mix. There are things you can do to not only help you but the whole family with navigating the waters. We’ve put together some back to school tips when you have a newborn. We hope that they help you!
- Schedules are for everyone. Most parents focus on the bedtime and morning schedules just for the school age family members, but that shouldn’t be the case. Everyone should be on the same schedule for bed and wake up. Being tired makes you cranky and can add added stress to the family.
- Pre-pack lunch and snacks. Planning the night before is going to help those mornings go smoother. You won’t feel rushed and scattered if you plan as much as possible the night before. You don’t know how your newborn baby is going to be in the morning, depending on sleep and feeding, so don’t add to the pressure, pack the lunch the night before. (Special tip: prepare after-school snacks when you’re preparing lunches. That way, when your child(ren) return home from school, their snack is ready to go).
- Set out the next day clothes. If your school aged child(ren) are old enough, have them get ready the night before. Know where shoes are etc. Nothing like not being able to find a shoe when you’re trying to get out the door. You should also do this for yourself and baby. Laying clothes out the night before will save you a lot of time in the mornings.
- Stay organized. Try to stay as organized as you can. I know this is a no-brainer and also know how hard it is, but you’ll really thank yourself if you can stay organized with homework, supplies and clothing.
- Make sure the gas tank is filled. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard parents having to drop the kids off and realizing they are almost on empty. This is where some good teamwork can come into play with your partner if you can leverage it. Have one of you take on the responsibility of filing and keeping the gas tanks full in the cars. Nothing like having to stop for gas when you’re in a rush or have a deadline.
- Have a dedicated space for jackets, coats, and backpacks. Having a dedicated space for your outdoor clothing and backpacks will make you rush out the door an easy process. Children learn by following, so if you are putting your jackets, coats and hats in the designated spot, so will they.
- Stay positive. Back to school can be overwhelming for your child, try to stay positive as much as you can, even with lack of sleep or if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Make sure they are going off to school with a pleasant experience. How you start the day is important, from meal to mental health.
We hope that these back to school tips when you have a newborn are helpful for you. Here at The Breastfeeding Shop, we would love to hear what you do to help keep things steady as you go during those back to school days. Visit us on Facebook to share your thoughts or clever ideas you have found to work.
