With the new school year fast approaching, now’s the perfect time to get ahead of the back-to-school rush! While this season brings a ton of excitement, we know it also presents a unique set of challenges for parents—turning that excitement into stress.
From watching your kids tackle a new grade with bright-eyed enthusiasm to keeping up with their busy after-school schedules and adapting to new routines, the transition from summer relaxation to academic rigor affects not just children, but entire families. According to Understood.org's 2023 Back-to-School Study, a staggering 87% of parents with children under 18 report experiencing stress or anxiety during the back-to-school season, with more than half (53%) considering it the most stressful time of the year.
We hear from parents all the time (and you probably do, too!) that maintaining peace of mind during the back-to-school season can be challenging. We hear you—and we want to help! Read on for our top 5 tips to help you manage the back-to-school season like a pro, for a smoother start to the academic year for both you and your kids.
1. Start with Cosmo for Greater Peace of Mind
From school safety concerns to simply finding ways to check in on your child’s well-being throughout the day, we know that staying connected is a back-to-school must. That's why we do what we do here at COSMO! With our JrTrack kids smartwatch and Mission Control parent app, you've got the simple yet essential tools you and your kids need to head back to school with a little extra confidence & peace of mind.
Here are just a few of the reasons we know parents feel that a kids smart watch can be a game changer to start the school year right:
- Feeling safe on walks to school: With GPS tracking and SafeZone alerts, parents can stay in the know as kids head to and from school.
- Coordinating carpooling and pick-up times: Add trusted contacts who can communicate with your child to help make carpools or pickup lines a little easier.
- Managing changing after-school schedules: Plans have a way of changing. Having an easy way to communicate to navigate new schedules can go a long way.
- Having a simple way to stay in touch throughout the school day: It’s easy to underestimate how far a little “Hello” or quick “I love you” can go to help everyone feel more connected.
So whether you’re brand new to COSMO or a longtime part of the family, be sure to take some time before the school year begins to ensure your kids’ settings are updated.
- School Mode: This setting in the parent app allows you to limit distractions by setting designated windows where your child’s device is locked except for emergency calls or contacting you, their primary parent.
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SafeZones: The parent app's geofencing feature allows you to create virtual boundaries, ensuring you receive periodic location alerts if your child enters or leaves designated areas.
2. Ease Back into School Sleep Schedules
Later bedtimes and sleeping in usually go hand in hand with summer break. To avoid a rude awakening when school starts, begin adjusting your kids’ sleep schedules about two weeks before the first day. Gradually move bedtimes earlier and wake-up times closer to what they'll be during the school year. Plus, have fun using Cosmo's smart watch reminders to help your kiddos stay on track with this transition. Set daily alerts for bedtime and wake-up, making the shift as smooth as possible for both you and your little ones.
3. Create Last-Minute Summer Memories
While preparing for back-to-school is important, don't forget to enjoy the last few days of summer break with your kids! Plan some special activities or day trips to create even more lasting memories. These fun moments will give your children something positive to reflect on when school starts and may help ease any back-to-school jitters. Whether it's a family picnic, a trip to the beach, a day at the park, or a backyard camping adventure, make the most of this time together before it winds down.
4. Turn School Supply Shopping into a Fun Outing
School supply shopping can feel more like a chore than anything else—trust us, we know! But this year, why not turn it into an exciting expedition with your kids? Start by creating a checklist of all the items you know they'll need together. This not only ensures you don't forget anything but also gets them involved in the process. Make it a special outing by allowing them to choose some of their supplies, like their favorite color folders or lunch box. This gives them a sense of ownership and gets them excited about the upcoming school year.
5. Surprise Your Little Ones with Lunchbox Notes
Remember how a small note from your mom or dad could just brighten your entire day? Keep that tradition alive by tucking thoughtful messages in your kids' lunchboxes. These can be simple words of encouragement, their favorite jokes, or even a little drawing that sparks a special memory. Not only does that add a personal touch to their day, but it also helps maintain that connection while they're away at school. Consider preparing a batch of notes in advance of back-to-school season so you always have one ready to go, even on busy mornings (you know the ones!).
We hope by following these 5 tips, you and your family will be well-prepared for the back-to-school season. And most importantly, you'll be able to balance practical preparation with joyful moments that will carry your little ones into the academic year with positivity and enthusiasm.
And remember, Cosmo is always by your side, giving you the tools you need to start the school year off right. Here's to a great year ahead!
