Today we're answering your questions about all things back to school! How to set yourself up for success on crazy mornings, when to ask for help, and questions you can ask to find out how their day really went. We also commiserate with you about packing lunches and Karen and Sunny share their love for a good, old-fashioned school lunch.

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Question 1: Getting back to the school rhythm has been HARD! Monday morning always catches me off guard! We are flying trying to get everyone out the door and on the bus. Any tips for helping me start the school week off with a little peace?

Karen’s Answer: Preparation, Preparation, Preparation

Honestly, I can’t stress it enough. On Sunday, pull out your calendar, look at the week.  What kind of week do you have ahead of you? Is your husband traveling, are you traveling?  If you are a working mom, what projects do you have waiting on you to tackle?  If you are a stay -at- home mom, what’s on your agenda? If your answer is nothing, then make an agenda.  Write out your meals, grocery list, etc.  Give everyday a purpose and get a plan. On Sunday night, prep the backpacks, make sure all papers are signed and in the folder for Monday morning, prep breakfast, when I say prep, make sure you have milk, cereal, etc.  Read through the sheets of paper that are sent in from the school so nothing catches you off guard during the week. (I’m the worst at this step) 

Lastly, start every morning with some time with God.  A prayer, a verse just giving thanks for the day, anything!!

Question 2: How do you handle kids’ sports? I will preface that I am a SAHM, I have some health issues, and generally very low energy. Hubby is and competitive sports are incredibly important to him, however he works in sales, very long hours so the shuttling to sports falls on me. Anything that has helped? I am feeling overwhelmed at adding more to my plate. My boys are 6 & 9. I will also add I’m very passionate about nutrition and so eating homemade meals on most days is high on my priority list.

Karen’s Answer: Whew! My tip is to find someone to carpool with!  Not joking, it is a team sport, so there are lots of moms going to the same field as you. Make friends, and offer to drive one way if they can drive another way. I would also share with your husband that you love his passion for competitive sports, and let him know you are doing all you can do, but you could use some help.  As far as homemade meals, pack them up and take them to the field.

Question 3: How do I find out what really went on at school when all I get is, “fine” when I ask how my kid’s day was? 

Karen’s Answer:  Most days it probably is just “fine”.  As a mom, you’ve got to make peace with that phrase.  I know it’s hard.  Ask other questions besides “how was your day?”.  Ask questions like:

• Tell me the best part of your day

• Worst part of your day

• Who did you sit by at lunch? 

• What is your favorite subject? Why? Worst subject.

Get creative in your approach to communicating with your child. As they grow we have to grow with them.

Question 4: Any tips for sending your first off to school? I’m already crying about it..she’s such a big helper at home and I just love spending time with her. Her sisters will miss her too. Nervous about that. Does it get easier? Thanks!

Karen’s Answer: Well, I’m probably not the best person to ask, because I didn’t really cry about it.  I understand that she’s a big helper, and yes her sisters will miss her. But they will grow closer in their relationship too, so that is a positive.  The way I looked at it, is it’s just part of life, and they have to grow up sometime.  I know! I sound so cold hearted! I think the Navy stripped away my softness.  Does it get easier? Yes, you adjust and fall into your new normal, and it all works out. Remember, not to project your feelings on your children!

Question 5: Making school lunches might just be the death of me. I like sending them with something homemade, but geez I don’t know why it feels like so much work. What age did your kids make their own school lunch and any tips or tricks that make it easier until then? 

Karen’s Answer: Girl, I’m with you!!! It feels like a lot of work, because it is and it goes one every day!!! I think making the meals the night before is easier than in the morning. Even just filling the zip lock bags with chips, fruit, etc is a big help. I used to try and do all that type of stuff the night before and just make the sandwich fresh. The other big helper, but it’s more expensive is to buy pre-packaged stuff. Or school lunches was always a good option. How old can your child be to make their lunch? Probably 4th grade on, possibly 3rd.

If you have a question about motherhood we want to hear it, so make sure you visit birdsonawiremoms.com/askkaren and tune in each week to see if we cover your question. You can also find on us on Instagram and Facebook, so follow us over there and send questions our way on social media as well.

Moms, we know your time is precious. Thank you for spending it with us. We hope you feel encouraged, equipped and most importantly—the peace of God. You can receive encouragement each week by tuning in to Wire Talk; so subscribe today and be sure you never miss an episode.