As parents, it’s easy to get swept up in the back-to-school rush—responding to emails, buying supplies, and just trying to keep up. But what if we paused, took a breath, and chose to approach this school year with intention? 

Here are six ways to help your family step into the new school year with confidence, joy, and a sense of purpose.

1. Claim a Word or Theme for the School Year

Instead of letting the school year happen to you, take a moment to decide what you want this year to be about for your family. In our home, we have a sign on the door that says P.R.I.D.E.—Personal Responsibility in Daily Excellence. It’s a daily reminder of what we value and strive for, especially with two kids still at home heading out this door to school each day.

Consider choosing a word or theme together as a family—maybe it’s “Growth,” “Kindness,” or “Courage.” Post it somewhere visible. Let it guide your conversations and decisions. This simple act can set a purposeful tone for the months ahead.

2. Express Expectations

A new school year is the perfect time to revisit family routines and responsibilities. What does a typical day look like? Who packs lunches, sets out clothes, or makes sure everyone gets out the door on time?

Hold a New School Year Kick-off Family Meeting. Go over everyone’s roles and expectations for the week. For older kids, consider creating family “contracts” for things like smartphone use, driving privileges, or homework routines. Yes, your kids might roll their eyes and wish for “normal” parents, but clear expectations help everyone involved. (I may or may not be speaking from experience!)

3. Focus on the Right Goals

It’s easy to get caught up in grades, test scores, and achievements. But as intentional parents, we know our real goal is to raise confident, compassionate, and responsible young adults.

Take time to reflect: Who do you want your child to become by the time they leave your home? What character traits matter most? This year, let’s focus less on perfect report cards and more on building strong character in our kids. (And just maybe straight A’s will come along with that.)

4. Step Back and Support

As our children grow, our role shifts from doing for them to supporting them as they do for themselves. It’s not always easy to step back, but it’s essential for their growth.

Ask yourself: What can my child take ownership of this year? Maybe it’s managing their own homework, making their lunch, or setting their alarm to get themselves up in the mornings. Be there to guide and encourage, but let them experience the satisfaction (and sometimes the struggle) of doing things on their own. 

READ: 8 THINGS TO STOP DOING FOR YOUR TEEN THIS SCHOOL YEAR

5. Cultivate Healthy Habits and Regular Rhythms

A thriving school year is built on healthy habits and consistent routines. Consider:

• Establishing screen-free times, especially before bed or during meals
• Expecting your kids to pack their own school and sports bags with what they need each day
• Using a clipboard system for each child to keep track of important papers and forms

These small habits add up, creating a sense of order and peace in your home, helping your family thrive instead of survive.

6. Create a Meaningful School Days Photo Album Keepsake

Life moves fast, and it’s easy to put off capturing memories for “someday.” But someday rarely comes. Use this school year as an opportunity to start a School Days Keepsake Album. My You are Loved Album is the perfect way for you to easily include annual first-day photos or the traditional grade-level school photos from each year. 

You’ll be grateful to have this precious yet simple keepsake to gift your child at their high school graduation or beyond!

Let’s choose to parent on purpose this school year, keeping our eyes on what matters most. With a bit of intention, we can create a season filled with confidence, joy, and lasting connection.