5 Ingredients for a Successful School Year

Depending on where you live, your child may be packing their book bag as early as this morning, or you may have a few precious weeks of vacation left. Regardless of your zip code, the undeniable fact is that back-to-school is happening sooner rather than later!

How can you help make this school year amazing? Here are the 5 ingredients for a successful school year.

1. Remember You're Human: I know that the start of the new school year can carry with it super-hero sized resolutions. That said, vowing to keep your house perfectly organized, serve home-cooked meals every night, and kick off a new exercise regimen all at once may leave you overwhelmed. Sticking with one or two goals will likely get you a lot further. So, be realistic, choose wisely, and avoid exhaustion by not spreading yourself too thin.
2. Plan Ahead: I know you don't have a crystal ball, but planning in advance for  things that need to be done on a daily basis will put you a step ahead. Doing as much as possible on weekends or the night before a school-day will also help mornings unfold with less drama. This way you have all sorts of extra time to deal with fun curve-balls (like 8 a.m. revelations on outgrown sneakers or last minute requests for gluten-, dairy-, and nut-free treats for the bake sale).  
3. Delegate: If you really want to take things to the next level, embrace your status as family team captain or CEO (whichever hat feels more comfortable). Not only will you not have to do everything solo, but it's important for kids to take on more personal responsibility year by year. This is a true win-win. You lighten your load a bit and your child gains confidence and independence.  
4. Be Flexible: The most helpful visualizations you can tap into if you're feeling strain during the back-to-school season is Elastigirl (matriarch from The Incredibles) or good old fashioned Gumbi. Both will remind you to be flexible! Even if there's chaos swirling around you and fires to be put out left and right, channeling your inner rubber band will allow you to bend and navigate any situation without breaking.
5. Have Fun: Summer just ended and lots of work and rigor lie ahead. It's important to make time for fun and laughter so you and your child can have a fantastic year. With these ingredients on hand, the 2016-2017 school year—with all its unavoidable ups and downs—will be a piece of cake!

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