Per the dictionary, the word end implies the final part of something; especially a period of time. With the end of summer upon us and school starting there are mixed emotions. We had an unbelievable time making memories this summer. I feel like I’ve grown in confidence as far as taking the kids on adventures by myself. I used to be scared to do things alone outside of the house with the kids. Not that the kids are hard to handle when we are out in public, but more the fear of something happening and it is just me in charge. I realized if we were going to have experiences together, we can’t always wait for my husband, family, or friends to join us. Have you ever had those fears? I’m here to tell you, it’s fun to make memories. (I’ve got a list of awesome places to check out with the kids in KC at the end of this).

However much fun we had this summer doesn’t compare to the fun our son is about to have starting school. He has been asking all summer when school will start again. We recently went to back-to-school night and he was ecstatic. His teacher seems lovely and he recognized previous classmates from last year. With endings come new beginnings. Beginnings that are looking a lot like a beautiful start to a new school year and Fall season. I hope that even with new transitions for you and the kiddos you can find joy in a new phase. Just as they evolve from the little people they are, we evolve into a new part of parenthood. I find a glimmer of excitement in the unknown journey ahead and I hope you’ll find that little sparkle as well.

Here are a few tips to start the school year off without a hitch. I can’t promise that means no tears (from the kids or the mommas), but it will help them feel prepared.

1.       Practice opening their lunchbox.

2.       Practice eating lunch within the time frame they will have during the school day.

3.       The week before school starts, go to bed earlier and practice the morning routine.

4.       Practice raising a hand to ask a question.

5.       Practice or talk about making new friends—introducing themselves, asking someone to play with them, etc.

6.       Make sure they feel comfortable with the bathroom wiping and being able to snap or button their clothes.

7.       Talk through what the day might look like, so they know what to expect.

8.       Most importantly remind them how loved they are and how excited you’ll be to hear about their day when they get home.

I hope everyone had a wonderful summer and a great start to the school year.

“Let us remember: One book, one pen, one child, and one teacher can change the world.”

-Malala Yousafzai

Places to check out in KC right before school starts or to celebrate the start of a great year:

1.       Prehistoric Putt in Independence, MO

2.       Main Event (Kansas City North Location)

3.       Powell Gardens (Fortopia ends September 4th)

4.       Fairytale Village at Crown Center (ends September 4th)

5.       Science City at Union Station

Have a wonderful weekend and as always, happy reading.