Managing the Chaos of Back to School Season

As parents, we all know that the back-to-school season can be a whirlwind of chaos and stress. From buying school supplies to adjusting to new routines, it's a challenging time for any family. But for parents with ADHD like myself, the challenges can feel even more overwhelming. We may struggle with organization, time management, and staying focused amidst the chaos.

Establishing Routines

When it comes to managing the chaos of going back to school, establishing routines is key. As parents with ADHD, we often struggle with time management and staying organized. By creating a consistent daily routine, we can provide structure and predictability for ourselves and our children. Here are three strategies that have worked for me:

1. Visual Schedules: Creating visual schedules can be a game-changer for parents with ADHD. Instead of relying solely on memory or verbal reminders, a visual schedule provides a visual representation of the day's tasks and activities. I use a dry-erase calendar on my fridge and use different colored wet-erase markers for each of us. This not only helps me remember what we have going on but also reduces the need for constant reminders or questions about what we have planned. I opted for a dry-erase calendar because our schedules are always changing, but I use wet-erase markers so it doesn't smudge.

If you have multiple kids and need extra room, I would definitely recommend this Amy Knapp calendar listed below. It gives plenty of room for activities, appointments, and reminders for larger families.

2. Morning and Evening Routines: Mornings and evenings can be particularly challenging for parents with ADHD. To make these times less chaotic, I've established simple morning and evening routines that we follow every day. For example, in the morning, we have a set order of tasks, such as brushing our teeth, getting dressed, and eating breakfast. I also have a checklist posted in my son's room so he knows exactly what to do. He

In the evening, we have a routine that includes winding down, reading books, and preparing for bed. Having these routines in place helps us stay focused and reduces decision fatigue.

3. Time Blocking: Time blocking is a technique that involves breaking your day into blocks of time dedicated to specific tasks or activities. A coworker recently introduced me to The Pomodoro Technique, and it has been LIFE-CHANGING for me. The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s. It has become popular because it is portable and super easy to learn.

Here's what you do:

• Pick one task to focus on.

• Set a timer for 25 minutes, and plan for uninterrupted time on that one task.

• When the buzzer goes off, take a 5 minute break.

• Repeat.

• After four cycles, take a longer break.

This can especially help parents with ADHD stay on track and manage their time more effectively. I have horrible time blindness and tend to hyperfocus on one task- or bounce back and forth from multiple tasks. This technique gives both a visual and audio que to spot and rest, and also breaks down tasks into short manageable chunks. Any timer will work for this technique, but I got THIS Timer Cube, and it has made it alot more fun!

Simplifying Organization

Organization can be a major challenge for parents with ADHD, especially during the back-to-school season. However, there are some simple strategies that can help us stay organized and reduce the chaos. Here are three techniques that have worked for me:

1. Decluttering: Clutter can easily overwhelm us and make it difficult to stay organized. Before the school year starts, I make it a priority to declutter and organize our living spaces. I involve my son in the process, teaching him the importance of keeping their belongings organized and creating designated spaces for school supplies. With less clutter, it's easier to find what we need and maintain a sense of order.

2. Utilizing Checklists: Checklists are a fantastic tool for parents with ADHD. They help us stay on track and ensure that nothing is forgotten. I create checklists for myself and my son, outlining the tasks that need to be completed each day or week. These checklists can include everything from packing lunches to completing homework assignments. By checking off each item on the list, we can visually see our progress and feel a sense of accomplishment. And let's be honest-If I don't write it down, it's not happening.

3. Creating Organizational Systems: Creating organizational systems can save time and reduce stress. For example, I've designated specific areas in our home for school-related items such as backpacks, lunch boxes, and homework supplies. By having dedicated spaces for these items, we can easily find what we need when we need it. Additionally, using labeled bins or folders helps us sort and store important papers and documents, ensuring that nothing gets misplaced. My label maker has come in handy so many times! Now, my husband and son no longer have the excuse of not knowing where to put things.

Communication and Collaboration

As parents with ADHD, it's extra important to remember that we don't have to do it all alone. Building a strong support system and fostering open communication can make a world of difference during the back-to-school season. Here are three strategies that have helped me:

1. Partnering with Teachers: Establishing a positive relationship with your child's teacher can greatly benefit both you and your child. Introduce yourself early in the school year, share any relevant information about your child and discuss strategies that have worked in the past. By working together, you can ensure that your child's needs are met and that they receive the support they require.

2. Seeking Support from Other Parents: Connecting with other parents who have ADHD or those who have children with ADHD can provide a sense of understanding and support. Joining local support groups or online communities can offer a safe space to share experiences, exchange tips, and seek advice. Through these connections, you may discover new strategies or resources that can help you navigate the challenges of back to school.

3. Prioritizing Self-Care: Taking care of ourselves is crucial as parents. Especially for those of us with ADHD. When we prioritize self-care, we can better manage our symptoms and be more present for our children. Find activities that help you relax and recharge, whether it's going for a walk, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in a hobby. Remember, when we take care of ourselves, we become better equipped to handle the chaos that comes with the back-to-school season.

Final Thoughts

By implementing these strategies, we can successfully manage the chaos of back to school and create a more peaceful and productive environment for ourselves and our children. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and with the right tools and support, you can thrive as a parent. Here's to a successful and stress-free back-to-school season!