9 Little Systems That Make Back-to-School Feel Steady (Not Survival Mode)
What’s actually helping me right now
Back-to-school doesn’t just belong to kids. It belongs to the whole family rhythm.
Even though I only have a preschooler, I still feel the shift of this season. Summer’s looseness gives way to structure. Earlier alarms, faster breakfasts, dance shoes tossed in a tote, new work schedules scribbled in planners. It’s a season of fullness, yes, but also an invitation to steady ourselves with rhythms that actually make life lighter and more beautiful.
I used to think “back-to-school” meant long lists of supplies like fresh pencils, crisp notebooks, boxes of crayons. But for me, it’s about something deeper: the small systems that keep our family anchored in joy and intention when the days fill up fast.
Today I want to share 9 little systems that are helping me trade survival mode for steadiness this year. Each one solves a tiny problem that used to weigh me down. And together, they create breathing room.
System 1: A 3-minute refresh.
As a teenage, I used to believe I couldn’t leave the house without mascara. Now? Three simple products in three minutes, and I feel alive, awake, ready.
The best CC+ cream (with skincare IN it): Light Medium or Medium
A 10/10 game changing bronzer: Shade 100
Two-in-one luminous blush: Color Cheer
System 2: Make mornings easy.
For Nellie, that looks like Alice & Ames dresses. Soft, comfy, twirly. She loves them, so much so it is all she will wear. But hey, it’s one less decision at 7:30 a.m., and it sets the tone for the whole day. And she looks adorable every time.
System 3: Write it down.
I used to keep our whole calendar in my head (and wonder why I always felt scattered). This Rifle Paper Co. planner brings joy every time I see it and keeps our to-do list and my work schedule in plain sight. Pro tip: their 17-month calendars are always on sale around this time. Perfect for finishing out the year strong and already being set for 2025.
If you want to grab a planner and get free shipping might I suggest this gorgeous serving tray (on sale!) or this trick-or-treat bowl you will have for decades to come.
System 4: Get dressed, get more done.
I’ve learned this the hard way, staying in loungewear keeps me sluggish. Pulling on my favorite pair of Old Navy jeans (so good I own them in multiple washes) shifts my energy immediately. When I’m dressed, I move through my to-dos with more intention. But I can’t stand jeans that are uncomfortable and these are a pair I can wear all day without fidgeting.
System 5: Fast, filling breakfasts.
Breakfast is often the most rushed part of our day. Clean Simple Eats Kids Protein is my go-to solution. Less than 2 minutes and Nell has a breakfast that actually fills her up and tastes like chocolate milk. She literally begs for it. (Chocolate brownie is our favorite!)
EMI10 saves you 10% always!
System 6: One bag that holds it all.
Between dance shoes, snacks, laptops, soccer balls, and my trusty Hydrojug full of Diet Coke, I need a workhorse bag. The Lands’ End tote carries it all without fuss and makes me feel pulled together.
System 7: Snacks you can trust.
Whether it’s church, soccer, or just errands, I keep Skout Organic bars (and cookies!) on hand. Their ingredient list is the cleanest I’ve seen, and I am just so grateful it is one less thing I have to stress over when figuring out what to put in our bellies.
Use code EMI for 30% off during their back-to-school sale. The biggest of the year
!
System 8: Find things that are chic + functional.
For me, it’s a workout dress from Old Navy. There is something about putting on clothes that feel flattering and functional that helps me show up for myself. With a new fall routine (and trying to carve out workouts again), it’s a piece that makes movement easier to weave into my day. And is SO flattering and beyond soft.
System 9: Mom fuel, but healthier.
CSE’s new protein sodas are a little lifesaver and taste incredible. Refreshing, protein-packed, and so much better than swinging through the gas station. I look forward to cracking one open mid-afternoon. Like a reset button in a can with 20 grams protein.
Use EMI10 to save! But use it quick. These are known to sell out.
Back-to-school is not just for kids. It’s for moms too, for families, for anyone who feels the rhythm of the season shift. These little systems are not magic fixes, but they are quiet anchors. They remind me that while the days will always be full, they don’t have to be frantic.
Though don’t be fooled, chaos seems to follow wherever I go, no matter what. But with intention, even this busy season can be steady, simple, and beautiful.
Xo,
Emi