Stock the Freezer with Prepared Meals
When you're running around school events and activities, it's hard to take an hour out and prepare a full meal. Dedicate one Saturday each month to preparing meals that you can store in the freezer and heat up on busy nights. Most casseroles store well in the freezer, as do soups, pulled pork, and even baked chicken breasts. Label your containers clearly with the date and the name of the dish so you can easily find what you need.
Make a "Master Calendar"
Keeping track of who needs to be where, and when, can be a struggle. Mount a large marker board calendar in your kitchen, and use a different color marker to fill in each person's scheduled obligations for the month. You'll be able to tell with a quick glance who has an activity planned each day—and where conflicts may arise. Make sure each family member knows to update the calendar when they schedule a new activity.
Create a Study Space in Your Home
The more efficiently you study, the more time you'll have left for other fun activities. Dedicate a space in your apartment home—even if it's just one specific corner of a bedroom—for studying. Set up a desk, a comfortable chair, and basic supplies like paper and pens. After a few uses, your brain will automatically go into "study mode" when you enter this space, and you'll have an easier time focusing.
Get Ready the Night Before
Mornings will be less of a hassle if you pack lunches, lay out your clothing, and make sure homework is completed the night before. Schedule a 30-minute period each night that the whole family uses to prepare for the next day.
Make Time for Family Activities
With such a packed schedule, it's easy to overlook family time, but spending time as a family will provide a welcome break from the challenges of school. Here are a few family-friendly events coming up in Southwest Florida:
How do you keep yourself organized and grounded when adjusting to a new school schedule? Share your tips and what works for you in the comments below!