As the school year kicks off, parent and author Lily Thompson knows firsthand the whirlwind that comes with it. With three children spanning from elementary to high school, she shares her expert advice for managing the back-to-school chaos without losing your sanity. Her top tip? Embrace a weekend of relaxation right after school resumes.
“Trust me: skip the celebratory dinner Friday night, avoid late-night sporting events, and don’t attempt to tackle errands or make grand plans. Let go of the urge to interrogate your kids about their day or force them into conversations,” she advises.
Instead of going out, Lily suggests a classic, comforting approach: a cozy night in with pizza and a movie. “Your Friday evening should revolve around the couch, some blankets, a pizza, and a film,” she states. “That’s truly all anyone can handle after a week of school.”
And when it comes to movie selection, don’t sweat it. Your kids will likely doze off before the opening credits finish. “They’ll barely make it twenty minutes in. Don’t even think about getting them in the car for an outing; your vehicle will turn into a circus!”
Initially, this advice might feel disappointing. Many parents want to celebrate their kids’ new school year with a nice dinner out, especially after a week filled with tedious paperwork and labeling supplies. But Lily makes a valid point—after a long week, unwinding on the couch sounds far more appealing than dining out. Plus, for kids, school is hard work.
This straightforward advice has resonated with many, as it has been shared thousands of times on social media. Lily also emphasizes that the weekend shouldn’t be packed with activities. Forget about apple picking or a zoo trip—she encourages giving kids the time to relax and recharge.
“Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to plan absolutely nothing for that first weekend after school starts,” she insists. “Let them recover. They’ve spent the summer being lazy and now have to adjust to focusing for hours each day.”
She reminds us that the transition to a new school year is about more than just new teachers and textbooks. Kids are also navigating significant social changes, which can be overwhelming. “They have to figure out new dynamics—like where to sit at lunch, the rules of recess, and even dealing with that one mean classmate,” she explains. “Plus, they’re adjusting to all the new expectations, and it’s a lot to handle.”
So, this weekend, the homework is simple: relax and do absolutely nothing.
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In summary, the first weekend after school starts should be a time for families to unwind and recuperate. Prioritizing relaxation over celebrations can set a positive tone for the school year ahead.