School is back in session! I don’t know if that makes you smile in celebration or cry out of sadness. But one thing we all can relate on is the afternoon-after-school chaos!
Personally, I have a hard time setting routines. Routines in the afternoon are especially hard. It’s so hard to strike a balance amongst snacks, homework, after-school activities, and dinner. But in order to keep my sanity, I’ve set out to find the perfect afternoon routine, and I’d love it if you join me!!
The Afternoon Snacks
The ultimate mom goal, right? Pretty little butterflies made up of grapes and crackers, or cheese. This is the expectation I had of what kind of mom I wanted to be. I’m a work from home mom, so I could carve out time if it was a priority to make beautiful creative snacks every day. But, the “kind of mom” I want to be, honestly just sets me up for failure. There is an expectation to compare myself to moms who have completely different talents and priorities.
One day, I plan on making those cute little butterfly snacks, and I’m going to be so proud of myself for it, but the standard of having one every day is just unattainable for me. We all have those expectations for ourselves, the ones we will never meet that give us anxiety. So just let that go! Find something that is attainable for you and that makes you feel proud. For me, it’s finding something convenient, but healthy, and if I can make it, total bonus points!
Homework
Ugh the struggle! The attitudes, the lack of self-confidence, and the patience. Homework is exhausting. But there’s always a way to make it better and improve homework time. It’s also so important that we try to make this allotted time flow as easy as possible for our kids. Teaching them to develop healthy homework habits will only empower their relationship to learning and education!
My biggest focus this year on homework time is to make sure to head into homework time with a good attitude. Honestly, I see it as another chore. But if I can make sure I head in looking at it as an opportunity to support them and teach them about hard work and positive attitudes, then I’m more motivated to have a better attitude! I also like to do this after snacks, that way neither of us are hangry, ha.
After School Activity
Santa himself couldn’t keep up with some kids’ after school activities. I’ve always tried to take it slow and do one or two things with my daughter during the week. However, this year, we have four activities! Making a calendar is priority and planning everything out in advance is so helpful. One tip that I’ve enjoyed is making this time as enjoyable as possible for the chauffeur. I like to take this time for podcasts, SoundCloud, or just music that speaks to me. Time is valuable and when you’re stuck in a car with nothing else to do, make that time work for you! Invest in yourself and it will be something you’ll look forward to!
Dinner
I’m on a mission to eat healthier and as conveniently as possible. This is where prep work becomes your best friend. Planning ahead, especially during the days when you have afterschool activity, will be a saving grace! Spend some time on Pinterest and come up with some easy healthy recipes that will be doable during the busy work week. There is nothing that motivates me more than fantasizing about eating the meals I’m planning, ha. So get your dream caps on and find a game plan that motivates you!
These are the four steps I’m concentrating on during our after-school chaos. I’d love to hear your tip or tricks to make it even easier!! I’m determined for afternoons not to get the best of me this year. I know one day I will look back and miss these crazy, busy days, so making the most of it now will only serve you and your family in the future!