As Savvy Auntie founder, Melanie Notkin, reminded me today, back to school time feels more like New Year’s than January 1st!

No matter how old you are, the “back to business,” “back to routine” energy is in the air in early September. A Savvy Auntie is naturally in tune with important children in her life, so of course she would feel up for a fresh start!

I love to give “back to school” gifts to some of my favorite kids. I just returned home from dropping off some back to school goodies to the children of one of my oldest and dearest friends. Daisy is like a sister to me and she is one of my all-time favorite heroine mommies! I remembered Daisy mentioned that her kids, Holden and Sawyer, who are entering the first grade and kindergarten respectively, enjoyed using their wall calendar to see when play dates or special events were happening.

What’s a Savvy Auntie to do? Get a pocket calendar, of course. No, I’m not trying to turn them into mini CEOs, but to support my good friend in how she teaches her children the value of time and the richness of life’s experiences. Throw in some colored pencils, pencil cases, and some treats for Mom and the back to school fairy has done her job. Here are a few back to school ideas for some of your favorite kids!

1. Like in my example, put together simple (not over the top) age appropriate back-to-school gift bags. Draw meaning out of your purchases that jive with the recipient’s personalities

2. Share a message of encouragement! No matter what grade level a child or young adult is entering, school is just a LOT more homework heavy than it was 20 years ago. Share a message of belief, positivity, and school/life balance to help reduce fear around assignments that parents themselves struggle assisting their kids with!

3. For pre-teens or teens, ask them what they would like to accomplish or learn this year. Maybe it’s making new friends or trying out for a sports team or artistic endeavor. Helping kids to articulate goals and passions is a great way to set up your favorite kids to WIN!

4. Share the success! How will your niece or nephew share their academic wins with you? Perhaps create a ritual like a small outing for their first “A” or schedule a time to mentor a high school student in a subject you excel in.

5. Got college on the brain? The 21st century college process is like BOOT CAMP. (I’m a former high school teacher!) Offer older high school teens college exploration jam sessions or some life/future/career chats!

No matter how old young people are, there is still the excitement and nervousness of starting a new school year both academically and socially. Today, kids can really never have too many supportive adults in their lives. Channel the inner kid in you and champion all of your back to schoolers!

Photo: Photostock

Published: September 3, 2014