173. How to Create an After School Routine That Works For Your Family
We are back with another episode in our back-to-school success series. Last week, we talked all about turning chaotic school mornings into calm, smooth starts to your day. If you haven’t checked that episode out yet, make sure to give it a listen for some great tips on making mornings a breeze.
Today, we’re shifting gears to the opposite end of the day—after school. I know firsthand how crazy things can get when the clock strikes three, and the kids burst through the door. The goal is to transform those hectic afternoons into more peaceful, organized, and enjoyable experiences for everyone. So let’s dive into some of the common pain points we face after school and explore how we can tackle them together!A
Creating Designated Drop Zones for Backpacks and Shoes
One of the first challenges many of us face is the "stuff explosion" when the kids come home. Backpacks, shoes, jackets—they all seem to end up right in the middle of the floor, don’t they? It can be overwhelming, especially if you don’t have a designated spot for everything.
The key here is to create a system that works for your family. It could be hooks by the door, a closet, or even a dedicated space in your child’s room. The important thing is to set clear expectations and consistently model where things should go. And here’s a little hack I learned years ago: observe where your family naturally tends to drop things and create a storage solution right there. It might not always be the most aesthetically pleasing, but it will definitely be the easiest habit to maintain!
Managing After-School Snacks
Another biggie is the after-school snack time. This can often turn into a chaotic feeding frenzy, and it can feel like just one more thing on our to-do list. Depending on the age of your kids, they might need more or less help with preparing their snacks.
For me, I like to have snacks prepped and ready before I pick up the kids. Sometimes, that means setting out a few options on the counter, so when we get home, they can grab what they need without any fuss. As kids get older, consider involving them in snack preparation. This can be as simple as assigning a snack helper each week or encouraging them to take responsibility for their own snack choices.
Handling After-School Activities
Now, let’s talk about after-school activities. Between sports, music lessons, and other commitments, our calendars can fill up fast. I always say I’m a different mom when I’m signing my kids up for activities versus when it’s time to actually do them!
A great strategy to manage these busy schedules is using a color-coded calendar. I have one in our command center, and each kid has their own color. This visual aid helps everyone stay on the same page and avoids those last-minute surprises. I also like to give my kids a rundown of the day’s schedule in the morning or during our drive to school, so they know exactly what to expect.
Navigating Homework and Reading Time
Homework and reading can be another major pain point, especially after a long day of activities. Ideally, we’d have a consistent homework time every day, but let’s be real—life happens, and schedules change.
We’re still in the trial and error phase with homework at our house, trying to find what works best. Whether it’s doing homework immediately after school or setting an alarm for a specific time, find a routine that fits your family’s lifestyle. And remember, it’s okay not to have it all figured out right away. Be flexible and open to making adjustments as needed.
Establishing a Bedtime Routine
Finally, winding down for bedtime is crucial for ending the day on a calm note. This is a part of our routine that I like to keep as consistent as possible. Whether it’s a warm bath, reading a story, turning on a meditation, or just some quiet time, having a predictable bedtime routine helps signal to your kids that it’s time to relax and get ready for sleep.
And there you have it! Tackling after-school time doesn’t have to be stressful or chaotic. By setting up clear systems and routines and being open to adjusting as needed, you can create a more peaceful and enjoyable after-school experience for everyone in the family.
Remember, it’s all about finding what works best for your unique situation. I hope these tips help you create a smoother and more organized after-school routine.
Before You Go:
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