Our kids are counting down the days. Summer is on the way. But the end of the school year can equal craziness in your household and budget. These tips will help you save time and money even if you feel like you’re on the struggle bus. Finish strong and celebrate the first days of summer!
Use a Calendar App
While I’ll always be a pen and paper sort of girl when it comes to calendars for myself, our family has LOVED using a common app to track all of our activities. Typically, my girls remind me of their various important dates when I’m driving or when I’m elbow deep in the sink. Even elementary age kids could benefit from an app like Cozi. We use the free version and everyone tags in to share their important engagements and events. Whether you use Google Calendar or iCal, finding a common use app (especially one that sends email or text reminders) for your entire family keeps the crazy at bay.
Keep the Kids’ Very Important Papers Separate
Every kid brings home a myriad of permission slips, reminders, and donation requests in May. You don’t need an elaborate filing system, but you do need to gather these VIPs (Very Important Papers) into a common place, separated by kid. For us, we have two piles of papers clipped to the side of our refrigerator. Then, when I need to remember what time a program begins or when a form needs filled out, I simply go to the respective pile of info and flip through it to find what I need. You could use file folders or a binder. Just keep the system simple and try to touch papers only once or twice to keep them from getting lost.
Fill Up Your Water Bottles
Hydration is key during the last week or two of school. Any time my kids come home complaining of a headache, I immediately ask when they last drank water. Pull out all of your refillable bottles and fill them to the brim. Place them in the door or base of the refrigerator. Fun fact: your refrigerator runs more efficiently when its full. I typically fill up our reusable bottles as soon as they come out of the dishwasher to keep a steady flow of H2O circulating through our kitchen and bodies. Between Finals and Field Day, everyone needs more water.
Plan Simple Meals
Look friends, now is not the time to decide you’re a five star chef. And on the opposite end of the spectrum, no matter how much it’s tempting don’t ignore feeding your family. Without a plan, you’ll end up in the drive through for sure. Today, sit down and make a plan for what you’ll be eating for the next week or two. Don’t forget to consult that calendar when you do. Stick with quick fix meals the kids could even whip up – deli pizzas, cold cut sandwiches, salad mixes, or quesadillas. Easy is the name of the game. Don’t forget some fresh fruit and veggies like carrots or peppers to keep everyone from coming down with scurvy.
Prepare in Advance to Say Thank You
The teacher, the principal, your bus driver, your friend who carpools, there are so many people who need thanked! Most of us get caught off guard with one or two gratitude gifts. If you have the budget, buy a bundle of gift cards in advance (I love Sam’s Club or Costco where you can purchase them under fave value). Even a $5 or $10 gift card can be a reminder of your gratitude. And purchase some thank you and graduation cards in bulk, too. I love my friend Tricia from Garrett Handlettering‘s work and Dayspring, too. Keep both handy. Ours are in a little box right near the door. Show those who have been invaluable just how much you value them!
Finish well. How you begin and end makes a difference. As parents, we’re tired and overwhelmed. Our kids are, too. But this year, you can not only survive the end of the school year but make a difference, too. Will it be crazy? Probably. That’s OK though. Keep your chin up and keep trucking as you bid farewell to another academic year.
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