So it's that time of year where some people are dancin' in the streets with joy while others are looking a bit more dejected and downtrodden - time for the kids (and teachers) to go back to school!  Regardless of which camp you're in (the happy dancin' folks or the "so-sad-I just-lost-my-freedom" group), there are some simple tips that can help to keep the sanity in your household at this time of year:

• Don't wait until the last minute to get your school supplies (yes I realize you will have to get some last minute or special request items after school has started but take advantage of the sales and special offers as they come up.  It won't hurt to stock up on the things you know you'll need like pens, notebooks and even non-perishable lunch sized snacks for the brown bag.
• There will be a myriad of activities and extra-curricular clubs.  Keep all equipment, special gear or clothing for activities in one location.  Put dance shoes & leotard, musical instrument & sheet music, jersey, spikes & pads or whatever you may need for a specific activity into a container in your room (a plastic crate or box in the closet works well) or if you have the space, somewhere near the door that you use to leave for school so you'll see it and remember it.
• Get ready the night before to prevent morning stress.  Put things needed for the next day together the night before.  Don't forget homework, books, permission slips, lunch/lunch money, afterschool stuff, etc.  It's even a good idea to lay out what you are going to wear the next day (that way you know it's clean/ready to go.)
• Keep a central family calendar or planner where everyone's activities are listed.  Each person should keep his or her own planner but then as a family, there should be one central location where everyone can look to see what's happening.  A large wall calendar or planner can work wonders.  There are some good options with plenty of space for writing or color coding for each member of the family.  Be sure to list appointments, reminders, long-term projects and special events. Don't forget birthdays, family events/vacation, games, practices, dances and countdowns to key events like graduations.

Now, these are only a few ideas, I'm sure there are tons of others.  Share how you keep the household sanity when it's back to school time?

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