Hints and Free Recipe Ease Back-to-School Bustle

October 7, 2003

Wouldn’t it feel good to have more time for your morning routine? Check out these great tips for starting your family’s day off right. Pack kids’ lunches and put essential school day items in backpacks the night before.

If your child takes a lunch to school, make sure to pack it the night before. You will be amazed by the amount of time you will save.

Also, have your child pack his or her backpack the night before. It will avoid a last-minute scramble around the house for homework and lunch money. Children sometimes become fearful they will forget essential schoolday items-let them take control.

Ensure everyone is getting the proper amount of sleep. Cranky, overtired children will be slow-moving and add stress to the morning routine.

Pick out an outfit and get it ready the night before. Nobody likes finding out minutes before the bus is to arrive that little Johnny won't leave the house in anything other than his favorite shirt, which is currently at the bottom of the dirty-laundry pile.

Try an award board. Every morning your child gets up and ready for school without a fuss, he or she gets a star. After so many stars, reward him or her with a treat.

Have simple and healthy breakfast options-such as yogurt, fruit, and breakfast bars-on hand at all times. If you are running out of time in the morning, these options can be quick substitutes for a more labor-intensive meal.

Here’s a great recipe from chef and Home Maven Allison Fishman for breakfast smoothies:

INGREDIENTS

Makes 3

1 one lb. bag frozen strawberries

1 cup ice cubes

1 cup yogurt

1 banana

½- ¾ cup milk

Honey, to taste

Directions: In a blender, combine strawberries, ice, yogurt, banana and milk. Blend on the strongest setting until smooth. Taste, and add honey as needed. Serve with a wide straw.

Make sure you as a parent aren't rushing in the morning. Children follow by example. If you are running around at the last minute, your children will learn to do the same. If you can wake up just a half-hour earlier, you will have time to get ready and then help your children with their morning routine.

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