Hi there,

There’s this weird in-between week every year. You know, when summer break is technically still on, but your brain is already in school-mode.

You’re sprinting through supply lists, sleep schedules, inbox updates, and a whole lot of “Mom, where’s my…”

The kids? Half-excited. Half-miserable. You? Equal parts relieved and overwhelmed.

That’s where we are right now as schools start here in Georgia next week. And this issue is for exactly that feeling. Let’s break it down together, emotionally, practically, and a little bit imperfectly.

Routine Reset

Let’s be honest, getting kids to bed early after a summer of late nights is a battle. You can’t flip the switch two nights before and expect magic. That’s why we start adjusting bedtime slowly.

In our house, it looks like this:

• Two weeks before: start pushing bedtime back to 10 PM
  

• One week before: lights out by 9:30
  

• Final few days: practice wake-up, breakfast, and leave-the-house timing

My younger one has to wake up by 6:30 AM once school starts. That’s a tough shift from vacation mode. But when we stagger it instead of forcing it overnight, it’s less of a shock to the system, for them and for us. 

Why you need to start getting your kids to bed early this week, waiting till they’re back at school is too late.  

Building a Little Bit of Excitement

No child wakes up thinking, “I can’t wait for school supply shopping!” But we’ve found small rituals that help create excitement without making a big deal out of it. 

For the younger one, it’s usually a new backpack or a fun pencil case. For the older one, something more functional, last year it was a new study desk. This year, maybe an ergonomic chair.

It doesn’t have to be fancy. Just something that signals, this year matters, and you’re growing into it.

We also stay on top of school emails when class lists come out or when assignments are announced. The kids love messaging their friends to compare. 

The One Thing I Hope They Carry With Them

If there’s one thing I want my kids to walk into school with this year, it’s an open mind.

I want them to be curious. I want them to try hard things even when they’re tempted to give up. 

And I want them to understand that hard work doesn’t mean pressure, it means progress.

It’s so easy today to get distracted. One moment of discomfort, and there’s a screen ready to entertain. But I want them to build that focus muscle. 

And mind you we’re not talking perfect, we’re talking about showing up. That’s enough.

The Routine I’m Trying to Model Myself

Organization.  

I’ve never been the most organized person. I’m not chaotic, but there are always piles of papers, scattered to-do lists, things that fall between the cracks.

My kids are getting to the age where structure will start to matter more. Especially as they move toward high school, and eventually college. If I want them to see the value of being organized, I probably need to show it a little more myself.

Because even the good habits they pick up, like doing homework on the bus home (yes, that’s real!) come from seeing that some things can make life easier if you build them into the routine. 

Back-to-School Checklist: A Parent’s Quick Prep Guide

Conversations

• What are you most excited for?

• Any worries or concerns?

• What’s one thing you want to work on this year?

Routine Reset

• Shift bedtime gradually over two weeks

• Dry-run morning routine 3–5 days before

• Plan meals/snacks in advance for week one

 Small Excitement Boost

• A new supply for their desk

• A fresh backpack or case

• Talking with friends about class lists

Conversations to Have Before Day One 

By now, you’ve probably bought the folders and the pencils and maybe even the fancy planner. But don’t forget the part that doesn’t come from a Target run: connection.

These are the three questions I ask my kids the week before school starts:

What are you most looking forward to this year? Is there anything you’re nervous about? What’s one thing you’d like to get better at?

Sometimes their answers surprise me. Sometimes they just shrug. Either way, it’s a check-in that matters.

That’s all for today’s issue, parents! 💗 

Inside the Laid-back Parent’s Internet History this week: 

Note for My Fellow -Back Parents 📧

If you’re feeling a little chaotic right now, that’s normal.
If you haven’t bought all the supplies yet, it’s fine.
If you’re nervous, hopeful, and a little tired, welcome to the club.

The new school year will bring its own rhythm. It always does.

Here’s to a fresh start, a few deep breaths, and maybe a better bedtime routine, for all of us.

See you next week,
Lakshmi 💛