Introduction

 When the school year starts it can be difficult to keep everyone on track. The various homework assignments, after school sports, clubs, and activities can become overwhelming. Fortunately, there are a number of tips that can be implemented to make everything run more smoothly.

 The Google Calendar is one way to make sure no important events or deadlines are missed. The calendar can be colour coded for individuals and can be updated online or by cell phone by anyone in the family. You can view the calendar in day, week, or month format and can have reminders sent automatically to your phone in the form of a text message. The calendar information can be shared with anyone you like so you can make sure other caregivers know what is going on. This free tool allows you to easily organize your entire family so the new going back to school engagements do not become a source of anxiety.

 Family routines are also beneficial in soothing back to school anxiety and in helping students start and stay organized throughout the year. Set out clothes for the school the night before and have a morning routine firmly in place so everyone knows what needs to be done and how long they have to do it. This will help children feel confident and at ease instead of anxious and rushed.