Here in Montreal, the first weeks back to school include summer heatwaves. So, for many students, young and old, it is hard to transition for school and fall when everything still feels like summer.
Heading back to school when the weather is still beautiful can be nice and upsetting. The kids get to enjoy outdoor time with their friends during breaks, but the schools are not equipped with air conditioning and by the end of the day they are hot and tired. God bless the teachers and staff trying to teach on these hot days! I promise I am not complaining about beautiful weather. I love the summer season and I hate the change-over to fall.
Here, the fall season is never gradual. It seems as if we go from shorts one day, to winter coats the next! And for kids, it can get a little confusing, so if you aren’t ready as a parent, before you know it, someone is coming home with a cold. Here’s a sure-fire way to get your kids ready for the seasonal switch.
Baskets!
Having a basket at the front entrance for each child is a perfect way to make sure they each have what they need. Pick up some rings and add their picture and name for the little ones so they can see their face and know which basket is theirs.
Before the temperature starts to drastically change, take some time with your child to empty their basket from the previous season. Right now, ours are filled with baseball caps. In the colder months, it will house gloves, tuques, and balaclavas.
Each season, our children have grown out of things and we need to replace winter gloves/mitts, and possibly (later in the year) ski socks.
I make it a point to put the winter stuff at the bottom of the baskets soon, so they are at the ready when they need it later. Currently, a baseball cap lives on top until it gets too cold, and some little stretch gloves are close by for cold mornings.
Routine Helps
Routine is the biggest transition for everyone in the family, when school starts. We all follow the school schedule. We have to wake up quicker, have breakfast quicker, and start our days with getting out the door to school. It can be challenging, especially if you have little ones that take their time. We want to be mindful of their needs, but boy, if can be hard to get them going sometimes, right? Having the baskets in the front of your home also helps the kids get used to putting things away, and finding their items to go to school. If they are already in school, they know the school routine drill, so help them keep up the same routine at home.
Sizing Up
At this point, check the sizes of their jackets and winter snow suits. Ideally, doing this before school starts gives you a leg up. But with summer weather deep into September, we usually don’t get to the shopping for new clothes until later. Thank goodness for online shopping, it can help a lot for the basics. If you can manage to find their favourite pants, hoodies, and gym socks online, just one size up, you are winning. For the jackets, sweaters and other fall/winter items that don’t fit anymore, it’s a great time to teach your children to donate their items to those less fortunate.
Other essentials, ready to go
I also have a small plastic bin on the top of our front table with sunscreen (yes, you still need it!), a tiny first-aid kit, bug spray, and sunglasses. It helps us get out the door with what we need when we are going for an activity. Other items I keep in the car are napkins, a water bottle, protein/granola bars, disinfecting wipes, and a towel. You will be shocked how often you will need these things, especially if you have kids in after-school sports. They will be tired, hungry and dirty. Having these things on hand will save you, promise.
Bonus tip
Now that school is in session, here’s a little tip. Seasonal changes can lead to wet grass during recess and lunch breaks. I pack an extra set of socks, plus a couple of band-aids in a small reusable bag to stay in their backpacks. They might not need it, but it will be there for them if they do.
For very little ones starting school, it’s a good idea to add another shirt and underwear should any accidents happen.
Calling all Carpool Parents
You are the chosen ones. It is a greater part of your day now. I get it, I’m right there with you. The above tips are to help you with your children, but please don’t forget about YOU. Driving everywhere and sitting for long periods in the car waiting for your children can test your patience. I get it! There is a part of me that loves it when I have time and nothing else to do (LOL). Other times, it can be stressful when your head is full of the other things you have on your plate waiting for you. Just remember, this part of your day can be enjoyable if you make that way. Listen to you favourite podcast, keep a book and a crossword puzzle in the car. Use your car’s glove compartment for gloves – have them there for you if you need them on cold days. And for goodness sake, bring yourself some snacks and a refreshing drink – pack them in your bag, in the car, EVERYWHERE. The number of times I had to rush out of the house to pick up one of my kids and forgot to eat lunch is ridiculous.
I hope this helps you ease into the colder weather with less stress!