As we enter this new school year, remember that to end the year well, you must start well. Many times parents can get caught up with being hyper-busy between home and career obligations. As such, it is easy to miss opportunities which, if taken, would ensure that the school year starts out well for your kids. So here are some tips which will hopefully get you on the right track in accomplishing this.

Get engaged with your child’s teacher

Most schools have an event in which you can connect with your child’s teachers. BE THERE! Let them know that you are their partner, not their adversary. Keep the lines of communication open. Given the digital age in which we live today, there are multiple ways to accomplish this. CHOOSE ONE!

Plan your week well

Use your Sunday afternoons to get a gauge on the upcoming week. Identify obligations and commitments that need your attention. Get your weekly rhythm going. This will take a few weeks. Be flexible and adjust as necessary. DON’T OVERCOMMIT. Parents want much for their children. But having them in multiple extra-curricular activities can put more stress on them than is necessary. Avoid that.

Find a good wake-up routine

It is critical that you not get into the habit of having frenzied, hurried mornings. This only stresses everyone out and can lead to a miserable day…for you and for your children. Avoid arguing. This just pours gasoline on the stress fire. Identify a separate, productive time to resolve conflicts.

Downtime before bedtime

You probably have some kind of screen in your house. Probably more than one. It is vital that you build boundaries around their access, particularly when your kids are headed to bed. Studies have shown that people need to be off their devices at least 45 minutes prior to going to sleep in order to get proper rest. Apply this to your child (and yourself).

Remember this: God has plans for each one of us. He sent His Son Jesus to redeem us in the pursuit of His plans for your children and for you. Seek Him as you prepare for this new school year. Set reasonable goals for you and for your children. This scripture should give you the encouragement that you need:

 “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.” Psalm 46:1-3 (NIV)