We’re in the heart of summer. Our young ones are knee-deep in popsicles, pool time, and summer activities, and it’s easy to let the weeks blur by. But if you’re a working mom juggling both a career and family life, mid-summer is your golden window to start planning for the school year ahead, so that when September rolls around… you’re ready. 

This isn’t just about buying backpacks and lunch boxes (though, yes, we’ll get there). It’s about choosing how you want this next school season to feel for you and your family.

Start With Vision, Not Just a To-Do List

This is where journaling and planner time come in. Look at the upcoming school year from a bird’s eye view. Pull up the school calendar—yes, the one that goes all the way to May or June of next year—and take note of everything now:

• First and last days of school
  
  

• Holidays and early releases
  
  

• Big events like kindergarten or 8th-grade graduations
  
  

• Your child’s birthday and milestone moments

Ask yourself: What moments do I not want to miss? Then block those dates in your calendar. If those moments matter to you, like being the one who brings in birthday treats, showing up at a performance, or taking your teen out for a quiet morning coffee on their birthday, you should plan for it now.

Why now? Because once you hit August, work ramps back up, sports schedules hit, and you’re back on the hamster wheel. Planning now means avoiding the “mom guilt” later. 

Little Things Now = Big Wins Later

Here’s what I like to do in July while the world’s still moving at half-speed:

• Order birthday cakes months in advance. If you know your kid’s birthday is in November, don’t wait. Book that specialty cake now and avoid the last-minute Costco run (Costco cakes can be great, but sometimes you want a little extra flair).
  
  

• Take advantage of clearance sales. Think: sweatshirts, shoes, jeans, basics. Don’t wait for the official “Back to School” hype. Seek out those end-of-season deals that can save you money and stress. Especially if your kid needs specific things like indoor gym shoes, or has strong opinions about denim.
  
  

• Buy the basics in bulk. If your son wears the same black socks and Hanes tees on repeat, stock up. That way, when it’s time to take him shopping for “the fun stuff” like basketball shorts, the trip feels lighter and less pressure-filled.
  
  

Include Your Kids (Yes, Even the Big Ones)

Whether they’re in 2nd grade or two years out of college, kids benefit when we consider their season of life. Being considerate of their personal lives well in advance, for example: noting when your adult daughter mentions she’s planning a potential bff girls’ trip for November, saves awkwardness and guilt down the line when I’m planning our own family get togethers. Be considerate & treat your own adult kids, personal calendars with equal respect. 

Don’t shame them into spending time together. 💡Insert the old days of matriarchal grandmas guilt tripping family members, that drove them away, rather than bringing them authentically together. Instead, stay in the loop. Ask thoughtful questions NOW,  jot down what they say, and build your calendar around what actually matters to them—not what you assume should matter.

Plan With Intention, Live Without Regrets

I aim to live a life with no regrets. Being intentional with everything is part of serving both sides of yourself. The one that’s passionate about your career and the one in love with motherhood. Planning ahead and being considerate is all part of that, so you don’t feel like you’re constantly catching up or missing out. We can’t control everything, but we can be thoughtful. This is big boss energy. We can create space for those little (and big) moments that fill our family’s memory banks—and ours, too.🤍

Let this midsummer season be your launchpad. Pull out your planner, grab a pen, and map out a few intentional wins. Future you—and your family—will thank you.

Send me a DM on Instagram @quinn.vise to let me know what school year moments you’re most looking forward to!

Cheering you on,

Quinn