Well, that went quickly, didn't it? Summer will soon be over and the kids will be back to school. Whether they have already been picking out new backpacks or refuse to give up their flip flops, school bells (and alarm clocks) will be ringing soon. Enjoy these last few weeks of freedom with the kids before the homework, bake sales and school projects start back up!

Moxie Girl

After a summer full of late nights, late mornings and lots of lounging around and play time, getting the kids back into a school routine can be a challenge. Getting a head start on getting back into the routine is key to an easy transition.

• Start getting the kids to bed a little earlier each night in the weeks leading up to school until they are back to their regular bedtime.
• Set an alarm in the mornings to get them back in the habit of waking up to the sound of it.
• Do the things that you normally would during the school year – have family dinners, take nightly showers and baths, and read stories.

While you’re slipping back into this routine don’t forget to take advantage of the free time you still have these last few weeks. Get back to school shopping, appointments, and last minute trips taken care of while you can!

Also important is getting kids get out the door quickly in the mornings once classes are back in session. Here are some helpful hints.

• Have the kids lay out their clothes for the next day at night.
• Get all homework and other necessities packed and ready to go the night before.
• Have a designated area for backpacks, projects, shoes, jackets, etc so they are in the same place all the time.
• Make lunches or snacks with the kids the night before so all you have to do in the morning is grab them out of the fridge.
• Keep quick and nutritious breakfast options on hand so the kids always have a good meal before scooting out the door.

We’d love to hear your back to school tips and what helps get your family moving in the morning! Let us know on Facebook or Twitter!

You and the kids have refreshed their closets and rooms for back to school but now you have piles of clothes they’ve outgrown, toys that haven’t been touched in over a year and school supplies that are so last year (as in Third grade, not Fourth, mom!) Goodwill is always a good choice, just find a donation center near you. iLoveSchools.com lets you offer donations as well as donate to a WishList. Staples stores have teamed up with local non-profits across the US to donate school supplies to area students. And don't forget one of Moxie Girl's favorite places to work with, the Sojourner Center.

Take your pick and feel free to share any of your favorites!