Whether you're the student, or the person in charge of little humans, when back-to-school rolls around, it's easy to get swept up in the hustle of shopping sprees, endless checklists and the pressure to have everything just right.
This year, we're challenging you to approach back-to-school season in a new way. Instead of giving way to the pressure of having all of the newest clothes and latest gadgets try viewing this fresh start through a new lens: minimalism.
Embracing minimalism throughout this transition doesn't just simplify things, but also helps teach valuable lessons about being intentional, resourceful and sustainable. Let's explore some ways you can start:
Reuse School Supplies from Previous Years
Before you head to Target to buy brand new supplies, take a few moments to see what you already have at home that fulfills the requirement. You'd be surprised how many things you have left over from last year! We all have those spare notebooks that were barely touched, dozens of pens with plenty of ink and backpacks that have a lot of life left in them.
Reusing what you already own is not only better for our environment, but is also an opportunity to show gratitude for what we already have! Plus, you get that satisfaction of checking things off your list before you even hit the stores.
Consider Shopping Secondhand
For those items that you do need purchase, why not consider shopping secondhand? Thrift stores, consignment shops and online marketplaces are full of gently used goods that are perfect for back to school. As an added bonus, they're usually a fraction of the cost. From clothes and shoes to backpacks and even electronics, you can find almost anything secondhand!
It's a great way to save some cash, cut down on wasteful consumerism and support a more sustainable lifestyle. Our favorite part about shopping secondhand? You typically find items with way more character or a unique story behind it.
Keep It Simple
Back-to-school season is notoriously overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Focus on the essentials and practice resisting the urge to buy into every trend or feel like you need to keep up with others. A few thoughtfully chosen items that serve a true purpose are much more valuable than a cart full of bits and pieces that inevitably end up forgotten in a drawer or left in a backpack. Model to your family the beauty of simplicity and how fulfilling it can be to have just what you need, and nothing more.
Get into a Good Routine
One of the best ways to set the whole family up for a successful school year is by getting into a good routine. Start easing into it before school begins, so the transition doesn't feel so shocking. Whether it's setting a regular bedtime for the whole family, planning out a morning routine or setting aside time for homework, a good routine can help your family feel prepared and in control.
Use a routine as an opportunity to teach your little humans about personal responsibility. Consider assigning your kiddos age appropriate tasks that they can be responsible for throughout the school year. Maybe they're packing their own lunch in the morning, or putting their school bag together the night before and making sure they have all of their assignments.
So, we're challenging you this back-to-school season to think about one of these ideas and thoughtfully implement it into your own lives! Remember, we're not aiming for perfect here at The Brandt Haus. Our goal is to find routine that makes sense for us, reduces our overwhelm and sets the entire family up for success during this busy season of life!
