It’s that time of year! Backpacks are filled, pencils are sharpened, and families prepare for a whirlwind month. With a new school year comes new routines, and there's so much to look forward to. Whether your kids are starting up sports, joining a different club, or tackling new subjects, the list of things to plan for can feel endless.
Amidst organizing sports schedules, coordinating meetings, and managing homework, it’s easy to let family time slip through the cracks. However, carving out regular family time each week is crucial, no matter how busy the school year gets. This time together strengthens connections, deepens friendships, and adds joy to the daily grind of new routines.
Here are a few practical tips to help your family stay organized and connected as the school year begins:
Create a Family Calendar: Use a shared digital calendar or a physical wall calendar that everyone in the family can access. Color-code activities for each family member to keep track of school events, sports practices, and family plans. This visual aid helps everyone stay on the same page and reduces scheduling conflicts.
Establish Weekly Check-Ins: Set aside time each week for a quick family meeting. This can be over dinner or during a relaxed moment on the weekend. Discuss the upcoming week’s plans, address any concerns, and celebrate achievements. It’s a great way to ensure everyone feels heard and involved.
Set Up a Homework Station: Designate a quiet, organized space in your home for homework and study time. Stock it with supplies like pencils, paper, and chargers to avoid last-minute scrambles. This helps kids stay focused and encourages good study habits.
Plan Family Fun Nights: Make family time a priority by scheduling regular fun nights. Whether it’s a movie night, game night, or a visit to a local event, having something to look forward to keeps everyone motivated throughout the week. Use that family calendar and make sure you write it down! This creates some accountability and encourages you to keep your family time a priority just as important (if not more important) than those soccer games and PTA meetings.
Now, you might be wondering, “How am I going to plan fun family activities on top of everything else?” We know it’s a lot. But here at HVO, we’re here to help!
Need a date night idea? Check out our Harvest Hoedown for a fun Partner Dancing night on September 25th or Line Dancing on October 3rd. Or, join us each week for Trivia & Burger Night on Thursdays or Singo Night on Wednesdays. We also host Live Music every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday! Bring a lawn chair and maybe a football or a frisbee to toss around on the lawn and enjoy some much-needed couple or family time.
Need a girls night? Check out Girls Night Out: Line Dancing on August 28th for appetizers and loads of fun with your gals while dancing the night away!
Looking for weekend activities for the whole family? Our Seasonal Celebrations are the perfect way to make everyday moments special!
Our next Seasonal Celebration is PEACH DAYS, happening this weekend (August 17 & 18)! It’s the perfect way to spend time as a family before school starts. Indulge in delicious peachy treats like peach donuts, fritters, muffins, scones, and more! Plus, enjoy a visit from the Peach Truck, offering fresh peaches and cherries on both days. Don’t miss our LIVE MUSIC performances from local artists Chris Yakopcic (Saturday) and Velvet Crush Unplugged (Sunday). Bring your kids for fun face painting, animal balloons, and other activities in the kids’ play yard!
Check out the full list of event details here:
Our Seasonal Celebrations and other fun events span throughout the fall season so it's easy to pick a time to visit that works for your family. Check out our full event lineup here:
As you organize your calendar and establish new rhythms, remember to prioritize family time. It’s invaluable. We’d love to see y'all round here at HVO, and we wish you a fantastic start to the new school year!
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