I have “The Back to School Blues” (sounds like a song doesn’t). It is hard to believe but the school countdown has officially begun in our house. Our countdown is, T-minus 3 weeks. Ugh…I know that is hard to believe, but here in Kentucky we go back to school really early.

I’m a little conflicted about school starting. I am super excited for the new adventures that Bug (my daughter) is going to have, but I am also sad. I am sad that our days at the pool and nights staying up late are numbered. I have enjoyed not having a schedule this summer. Our family has loved spending our evenings, riding bikes and catching lighting bugs until the sun goes down. Sigh…the days of a strict school schedule are on the horizon.

Another reason why I am conflicted about Bug going back to school is she will be a full-time student. As a semi-stay-at-home mom this is going to be a huge change for me!! I am use to my little girl going everywhere with me and being right by my side. Bug has learned to sit through her share of doctor’s appointments, dentist appointments, and hair appointments. Now, I have to drop her off each morning and I won’t see her for 7 hours! Can someone grab me a Kleenex?!?!?! Okay…I know I just had a moment. I promise I am over it (well at least for now).

I know we are both going to go through a huge adjustment period. However, I think I will have a harder time than Bug. Mommy is struggling with her little girl growing up! Bug on the other hand, is the type of child that always lands on her feet. She usually adjusts and adapts very easy. Bug actually told me she was ready to go back to school today. What can I say, music to this momma’s ear! I am glad she is excited about going back to school because it makes the transition easier.

Over the next few weeks, we will begin moving Bug’s bedtime up and prepping her for the first few days of school. So what do you do to get your kids in “back to school mode”?

Here are a few tips from the National Association of School Psychologists:

1. Buy school supplies early (it is hard to miss the sale flyers?!?!).
2. Re-establish bedtime and mealtime routines
3. Turn off the television in the morning (this is supposed to ease the transition into the learning process)
4. Make sure your child has clothing that meets schools dress-code standard
5. Designate a place for backpacks and lunch boxes
6. Designate a homework spot
7. Clear your own schedule
8. Familiarize yourself with school professionals and administrators
9. Attend Open House events and other Back to School Events
10. Remain calm and positive

In our house we are going to hold onto the last few weeks of summer. I wish I could play the denial card about back to school, but I guess I can’t. So here is to 3 weeks of “The Back to School Blues” (sigh)!