From Overwhelm to Order: Strategies for a Structured School Year
Hey friend!
Welcome back! Every August, I find myself craving structure again, just like in May when I start to itch for more flexibility. With the school year fast approaching, I need greater structure. Many of my clients have mentioned wanting a successful family routine that helps them get back into better habits like healthier eating and structured bedtimes. I'm right there with them. So, if you are like us, this post is for you! Let's get to it.
The Importance of Structure
As this new school year approaches, or maybe for you, it's already begun, it’s important to establish routines that promote organization, productivity, and well-being for both children and adults. Robert Collier said, “Success is the sum of small efforts repeated day in and day out.” Personally, I thrive on structure. My husband, on the other hand, is more flexible. I believe that structure brings the most benefits, but it's important to be flexible too.
Setting Clear Goals and Priorities
The first step is setting clear goals and priorities. Define your family's priorities for the upcoming school year, whether it’s academic success, extracurricular activities, or quality family time. Establishing clear goals will guide your routine and decision-making process. This value-led approach helps your family focus on what truly matters. For example, this year, I want to make more full family memories since it’s my daughter’s senior year. I also want to focus on family councils and connection bids with my husband as we begin our 20th year of marriage. What about you? What do you want to highlight and prioritize this coming year?
"Creating a consistent daily schedule helps children feel secure and focused, setting them up for academic success and personal well-being throughout the school year." – Kendra Nielson
Creating a Daily Schedule
Creating a daily schedule can help tremendously. In our family councils, which we hold for about 30 minutes on Sundays, we map out everything for the week. This prevents chaos and helps us live more intentionally. We designate times for waking up, meals, homework, playdates, bedtime, and more. Consistency is key to promoting a sense of safety and security for your children. We have a big calendar in our kitchen, our “command center,” where the kids can see the plan for the month. We review this during our family councils and also give our kids a planner to keep track of their own schedules.
Establishing Morning and Evening Routines
Morning and evening routines are essential for streamlining transitions and reducing chaos. Incorporate activities like scheduling breakfast together, packing backpacks the night before, or winding down with bedtime stories. For younger kids, it could be bath time before bed or tucking them in with a funny story. Get your family’s collaboration to find what works best for everyone.
Designating Homework Time
Have a specific time for homework and study sessions, and provide a space free from distractions. Encourage your children to break down their tasks into manageable chunks and reward themselves when they complete them to boost motivation and productivity. Make this time enjoyable with healthy snacks and connection bids, like a loving touch or a smile. The goal is to make homework time a positive experience, not a battle.
Encouraging Open Communication
Open communication is crucial. Ask your kids about their feelings, concerns, and achievements. Create opportunities for your family to discuss goals, challenges, and successes. This fosters collaboration and reduces resentment and resistance, especially for children prone to power struggles.
Prioritizing Self-Care
As we move into more structure, it’s vital to prioritize self-care. Schedule regular breaks and relaxation activities for both you and your children. This could be anything from pickleball and tennis to short neighborhood walks or hot tubbing at the gym. Think about what rejuvenates you and your family, and make time for those activities in your schedule.
"Balancing academics with extracurricular activities and family time is essential. It teaches children the importance of a well-rounded life and helps prevent burnout." - Kendra Nielson
Modeling Healthy Habits
Modeling healthy habits and leading by example is powerful. Show your children how to manage their time, organize, and practice self-care. This empowers them to develop their own routines and habits for success. Sometimes, I forget to communicate what I’m doing to my kids and help them do the same, but it’s an important step.
Staying Flexible and Adapting
While structure is important, so is flexibility. Life happens, and sometimes schedules need to be adjusted. This isn’t an excuse to abandon structure but to give yourself “floor days” (minimal goal days) and “ceiling days” (optimal goal days). Recognize what each type of day looks like and adjust accordingly.
Celebrating Achievements
Celebrate small victories to motivate and inspire each other. Recognize efforts and progress to reinforce a growth mindset, which builds confidence and self-esteem. We often plan celebrations for achieving goals to increase family buy-in. Focus on the positives and build that five-to-one magic ratio—five positives for every negative interaction or experience.
Reflecting and Adjusting
Regularly reflect on your family routine and make adjustments as needed. Gather feedback and involve your children in decision-making. Listen to their thoughts and ideas for improvement. This creates a more collaborative and flexible environment.
Conclusion
As we begin a new school year, prioritize creating a healthy and structured routine to achieve greater success, well-being, and fulfillment in your family. These simple yet powerful strategies can help you navigate the challenges of the school year with greater confidence and resilience. Remember, success is not measured by perfection but by the consistent effort we put into nurturing our families and creating meaningful connections. Albert Schweitzer said, “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.”
So, as summer winds down, it’s time to get structured, my friends. Best of luck to you this coming school year as you become your best self personally and as a family. Take care!
*Want to learn more? Check out our podcast episode on Getting Back to School below!
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