In Episode 88 of the Parenting in Real Life Podcast, we talk about why September is a great time to change things up, back to school traditions, and Alan’s new favorite phrase for our family. You can listen to the episode anywhere that you listen to podcasts.
September is the other January
We love listening to Gretchen Rubin’s Podcast Happier. She talks about how September is the new January because it’s a time where you can use the strategy of a clean slate to start new routines, projects, or habits. With many of us having kids starting school, we have to change up routines anyway, so why not make some new goals while you’re at it?
Some fun facts about September is that September is one of the biggest months for going to the gym and starting weight-loss programs and people often change their hair style in September. With the start of school, families are getting back into routines which helps people get more organized. January is also a hard time for resolutions after an exhausting holiday season. And I don’t know about you, but usually I throw all goals and plans out the window throughout the summer. So September is an awesome time to regroup and start fresh.
New Routines
Something that we’re revamping as we start the new school year are:
- Updating chore charts
- Morning and After School Routines
- Earlier bedtimes – for us as well
- More committed to our family fun nights (Fridays) and date nights (Saturdays)
- Weekly family meetings to talk about schedules and events
- Morning scripture study before the kids go to school
Back to School Traditions
As we get ready for school, we also like to do some back to school traditions to celebrate the new year. We love to do a spaghetti dinner and decorate the table with school supplies. I create a summer slideshow with our photos from the summer to see all the fun things we did. I just quickly put this together on Google Photos. We also buy new backpacks and shoes for everyone.
Back to School Shopping
In Utah, it’s still pretty hot, but the temperatures are going to drop soon. My kids are so excited to get some new fall clothes. We recently discovered City Threads. We love that City Threads has tons of organic cotton options. Their clothes are super soft and especially friendly for kids with allergies or sensory challenges. They have lots of color basics which helps my kids easily pick out outfits to wear that match rather than coming to breakfast in clashing patterns. And all their clothes are made in the USA! So the quality is American standard and when you buy from City Threads, you’re supporting a local business and American families. When you’re doing your back to school shopping, make sure to visit City Threads and use Tanner10 for 10% off your purchase.