Back to School Made Easy: Tips from Our Resident Amazing Mom
Discover Bridget Costello’s mom-approved back-to-school tips for smoother mornings, organized days, and meaningful family moments all year long.
Aug 11, 2025
If you’re anything like me, the words back to school bring a mix of emotions — excitement for fresh starts, nostalgia for summer’s slower pace, and maybe a little nervous energy about getting everyone out the door on time. Over the years, I’ve learned that the best back-to-school tips aren’t about perfection but finding small, doable ways to make the transition smoother for the whole family.
I’ve been through enough first-day mornings to know this: kids feed off our energy. When we approach the season with calm, connection, and a dash of fun, they feel more confident stepping into their classrooms. That’s why my favorite back-to-school tips are designed to keep things organized and heart-centered, so your family feels supported every step of the way.
From gently easing back into routines to creating little moments of connection in the morning rush, these ideas have helped my family (and my sanity!) year after year. Whether your kids are just starting kindergarten or heading into high school, I hope these back-to-school tips bring more peace, joy, and togetherness to your days ahead.
1. Gently bring back your schooltime routine
A week or two before school starts, gently guide your family back into a rhythm with earlier bedtimes and calmer mornings. Turn it into something cozy: evening story time, breakfast chats, slow starts. Routines don’t have to feel strict … they can feel like home.
2. Create a family calendar
Use a central calendar (digital or physical) to track school events, extracurricular activities, deadlines, and appointments. It keeps everyone on the same page and minimizes surprises.
3. Prep the night before, breathe in the morning
Pack lunches, pick outfits, and sign forms the night before to lighten the load. Then take a breath together in the morning — even 30 seconds of eye contact and a smile can set a tone that says, “You’ve got this — and I’ve got you.”
4. Designate a homework zone
Set up a quiet, clutter-free space for your child to do homework. Keep supplies handy to reduce distractions and keep them focused.
5. Prioritize connection over perfection
Check in emotionally with your kids. Ask how they feel about going back to school, listen actively, and remind them (and yourself) that it’s okay not to have everything perfect.
Bonus!
Purchase an H&D treat box and use the items for fun back-to-school lunches and snacks!
AUTHOR
Bridget Hogue Costello is a seasoned experience strategist and brand leader, currently serving as head of experiences at 1-800-Flowers.com. She brings a people-first approach to customer engagement, blending creativity with operational excellence.
