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Back-to-School Hacks for the Savvy Single Mom

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Hey there, awesome readers!

Some people call it “the most wonderful time of the year.”

Others refer to it as “the most stressful time of the year.”

That’s right. I’m talking about back-to-school.

When the lazy days of summer end and we return to the routine of everyday life.

Alarm clocks.

Lunches to prepare.

Homework.

And more than that, with the demands of school supplies, back-to-school is one of the most expensive times of the year.

As a single mom, navigating this transition can feel overwhelming. I know because I’ve been there. But don’t worry! I’ve got your back with some practical, easy-to-implement tips to help make this back-to-school season smoother and more budget-friendly.

Let’s dig in, shall we!

1. Start the new routine early: Begin adjusting bedtimes and wake-up times a week before school starts. This gradual shift will make the first day less jarring.

Mom Hack: When my kids were little and still mine, the week before back-to-school I would say, “let’s play school this week.” This worked because “playing school” was one of their fave games.

2. Meal prep Sundays: Dedicate a few hours each Sunday to plan meals and prepare lunches in advance. This saves time and reduces stress on busy mornings and homework-ridden evenings.

Mom Hack: I used to turn this into a fun activity with my kids. We’d put on some music and have a “lunch assembly line.” They loved being involved, and it taught them about meal planning.

3. Create a family calendar: Use a large whiteboard calendar to keep track of everyone’s schedules, assignments, and activities.

Mom Hack: My kids enjoyed using different coloured markers for their activities, making it both functional and fun.

4. Set up a homework station: Designate a quiet, well-lit area for homework and stock it with necessary supplies. This helps establish a productive study routine.

Mom Hack: Set it up in the kitchen so that they can do their homework while you’re preparing dinner or cleaning up. This way you’re close by if they have questions (or want to chat about their day).

5. Embrace second-hand: Check out thrift stores or online marketplaces for gently used clothing and supplies. You’d be surprised at the great deals you can find!

Mom Hack: “Vintage” is a trend and sounds way cooler than “second-hand.”

6. Establish a “launch pad”: Create a designated area near the door for backpacks, shoes, and jackets. This helps prevent frantic morning searches for missing items.

Mom Hack: You can even prepare clothes the night before. How many mornings was I late because we couldn’t find matching socks? Too many to count!

7. Prioritize self-care: Don’t forget to take care of yourself! Set aside some “me time” each week, even if it’s just 30 minutes to read or take a relaxing bath.

Mom Hack: Make this a non-negotiable! A happy, well-rested, and fulfilled mom is a better parent.

8. Connect with other parents: Build a support network with other single moms. You can share tips, carpool, or even take turns hosting study groups or play dates.

Mom Hack: When I was a young, single mom, social media didn’t exist. Things are different now and online friends and groups can be just as supportive as IRL relationships.

9. Be kind to yourself: Remember, perfection isn’t the goal. Some days will be chaotic, and that’s okay. You’re doing your best, and that’s all that matters.

Mom Hack: Taking a deep breath when you’re “in the moment” can save the day!

Remember, you’ve got this, mama! With a little planning and these simple strategies, you can tackle the back-to-school season like a pro. Here’s to a great year ahead!

Do you have any other tips? Share them in the comments below! Because sharing really is caring!

###

Mona Andrei is an award-winning humour blogger and author known for her entertaining perspective on life’s quirks. In her most recent book, SUPERWOMAN: A Funny and Reflective Look at Single Motherhood, she shares a personal journey filled with challenges and triumphs, intertwining stories and insights from single mothers around the globe.

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Hey there, awesome readers! Some people call it “the most wonderful time of the year.” Others refer to it as “the most stressful time of the year.” That’s right. I’m talking about back-to-school. When the lazy days of summer end and we return to the routine of everyday life. Alarm clocks. Lunches to prepare. Homework. And more than that, with the demands of school supplies, back-to-school is one of the most expensive times of the year. As a single mom, navigating this transition can feel overwhelming. I know because I’ve been there. But don't worry! I've got your back with some practical, easy-to-implement tips to help make this back-to-school season smoother and more budget-friendly. Let’s dig in, shall we! 1. Start the new routine early: Begin adjusting bedtimes and wake-up times a week before school starts. This gradual shift will make the first day less jarring. Mom Hack  When my kids were little and still mine, the week before back-to-school I would say, “let’s play school this week.” This worked because “playing school” was one of their fave games. 2. Meal prep Sundays: Dedicate a few hours each Sunday to plan meals and prepare lunches in advance. This saves time and reduces stress on busy mornings and homework-ridden evenings. Mom Hack  I used to turn this into a fun activity with my kids. We'd put on some music and have a "lunch assembly line." They loved being involved, and it taught them about meal planning. 3. Create a family calendar: Use a large whiteboard calendar to keep track of everyone's schedules, assignments, and activities. Mom Hack  My kids enjoyed using different coloured markers for their activities, making it both functional and fun. 4. Set up a homework station: Designate a quiet, well-lit area for homework and stock it with necessary supplies. This helps establish a productive study routine. Mom Hack  Set it up in the kitchen so that they can do their homework while you’re preparing dinner or cleaning up. This way you’re close by if they have questions (or want to chat about their day). 5. Embrace second-hand: Check out thrift stores or online marketplaces for gently used clothing and supplies. You'd be surprised at the great deals you can find! Mom Hack  “Vintage” is a trend and sounds way cooler than “second-hand.” 6. Establish a "launch pad": Create a designated area near the door for backpacks, shoes, and jackets. This helps prevent frantic morning searches for missing items. Mom Hack  You can even prepare clothes the night before. How many mornings was I late because we couldn’t find matching socks? Too many to count! 7. Prioritize self-care: Don't forget to take care of yourself! Set aside some "me time" each week, even if it's just 30 minutes to read or take a relaxing bath. Mom Hack  Make this a non-negotiable! A happy, well-rested, and fulfilled mom is a better parent. 8. Connect with other parents: Build a support network with other single moms. You can share tips, carpool, or even take turns hosting study groups or play dates. Mom Hack  When I was a young, single mom, social media didn’t exist. Things are different now and online friends and groups can be just as supportive as IRL relationships. 9. Be kind to yourself: Remember, perfection isn't the goal. Some days will be chaotic, and that's okay. You're doing your best, and that's all that matters. Mom Hack  Taking a deep breath when you’re “in the moment” can save the day! Remember, you've got this, mama! With a little planning and these simple strategies, you can tackle the back-to-school season like a pro. Here's to a great year ahead! Do you have any other tips? Share them in the comments below! Because sharing really is caring! ### Mona Andrei is an award-winning humour blogger and author known for her entertaining perspective on life’s quirks. In her most recent book, SUPERWOMAN: A Funny and Reflective Look at Single Motherhood, she shares a personal journey filled with challenges and triumphs, intertwining stories and insights from single mothers around the globe.