Adjusting Your Routine for the School Year: Finding Balance for You and Your Family

Creative Manager
Aug 11
2 min read

The start of the school year brings fresh routines, early mornings, packed schedules, and let’s be honest — a lot of juggling. For many moms, it can feel like you’re suddenly training for your own Olympic event: the Back-to-School Hustle. The good news? With a little planning, you can create a rhythm that works for your family and leaves you feeling your best.

Here are my best tips for adjusting your routine when the school bell rings:

1. Make Your Workouts Non-Negotiable (but Flexible)

If your summer routine involved lazy mornings and midday workouts, the school year can be a shock. You may need to shift your workout time earlier or later — and that’s okay.

Early Bird Option: Sneak in your Wilma workout before the kids wake up. Even 15–20 minutes can set your energy and mood for the day.
After-School Option: Let the kids have a snack while you squeeze in a quick session. They might even join in for fun!
Weekend Anchor Days: If weekdays feel too unpredictable, make Saturday or Sunday your longer workout time.

Remember, it's not all or nothing -- it's all or something! Consistency wins over perfection.

2. Plan Healthy Meals Around the Schedule You Have

When sports practices, lessons, and homework fill your calendar, dinnertime can sneak up fast.

Batch cook proteins like shredded chicken, ground turkey, or hard-boiled eggs for quick meals.
Use theme nights (Taco Tuesday, Sheet Pan Wednesday, Soup Sunday) to simplify decision-making.
Plan for at least one “leftovers night” each week — it saves time, money, and sanity.
Take advantage of the recipes in the Wilma app. Easy, quick, and healthy options the whole family will love!

3. Adjust for Meals on the Go

Some nights, you just won’t be home at dinnertime — and that’s okay! Instead of drive-thru defaults, stock quick grab-and-go options:

Bento boxes with wraps, cut veggies, and fruit
Yogurt parfaits with granola and berries
Mini thermoses for hot soups or pasta
Protein-packed muffins or homemade snack bars

Having options ready keeps you from the “what do we eat?!” scramble in the car.

4. Protect Family Time

School nights can feel short, so be intentional about the moments you do have together.

Aim for at least one shared meal a day, even if it’s breakfast instead of dinner.
Use car rides as catch-up time — ask about the best and hardest parts of their day.
Pick one weeknight for a family activity: a game, a walk, or a favorite show together.

5. Give Yourself Grace During the Transition

The first few weeks are an adjustment for everyone. Don’t be discouraged if your new routine feels clunky at first — it will smooth out. Focus on what’s working, tweak what isn’t, and remember: the goal is a sustainable routine, not a perfect one.