Vacation is coming to an end and kids are heading back to school. How do you mediate the stress from work and having to manage you and your kids’ stresses from school? When stressors collide, upsetting situations are created that often lead to anger, misunderstanding, and resentment. There are many tips for alleviating stress as a family.

Stress Tips for the Family

Listed below are some stress tips for alleviating stress as a family.

Develop a Plan and Stick to It

Establish rituals in advance: bedtime/curfews; homework hour (no distractions); dinnertime (everyone eats together whenever possible); make sure to put up a calendar of everyone’s after-school activities (and keep it current) to avoid scheduling conflicts. Kids need (and want) structure—a plan reduces confusion and stress by keeping everyone on the same page.

Save, Save, Save

Hit sales to cut down on expenses, both online and in-store. Stores usually prepare for sales on Thursday evenings, so get there early on Fridays for the best savings. If your state offers tax-free shopping days, take advantage of them!

Avoid Morning Chaos

Stop the morning madness. Pre-pack lunches, lay out clothes, get backpacks ready and shower in the evenings to cut down on morning stress.

Activity Time Each Night

Each night go for a family walk for 20 minutes, play catch or shoot hoops. Healthy, active parents create healthy, active children.

Encourage Quiet-Reflective Time for Your Family

This practice plants the seeds of peace, wisdom, and reflection in your children. Have them spend 10 minutes of quiet time each evening. This is also their time to read, explore individual creativity, prayer, and meditation.

Practice S.E.L.F. Care

Practicing self-care teaches your children the vital importance of caring for their own mind, body, and soul. Make a date with yourself to get a massage, meet a friend, attend an art exhibit, get nourished! Your children’s days are filled, shouldn’t yours be?

Laughing Matters

Laughter is an immediate stress reducer and teaches children to not take themselves and life too seriously. See comedy movies regularly.