Expertly manage the back-to-school bustle

(BPT) – With the school year just around the corner, it’s time to start preparing for an exciting season of educational growth, evening sports games and school lunches. All busy parents know the importance of not only preparing accordingly but also brainstorming ways to make their child’s new school year extra special.You may not be able to do all your school supply shopping now, but there are other ways you can prepare yourself for a new school year. Check out these five expert tips that can help you effortlessly manage the hustle and bustle of the back-to-school season.1. Plan aheadThe first thing you can do to set yourself up for success is to plan ahead. Start by setting up a family calendar in the house or utilize a shared online calendar. Your calendar is bound to fill up with school events, project deadlines and sports schedules, so there is no better time than now to put pen to paper.By having an organized calendar with your family’s schedule ready before the academic year starts, you’ll be able to sail smoothly through the back-to-school months. Your future self will thank you for taking this step, as it may lower your stress levels during the busiest days of the school year.2. Create a routineDaily routines provide a sense of stability and help streamline your family’s schedule. What should you include in your daily routine? From sleeping and study schedules to mealtimes and family-focused activities, a structured routine will help create healthy daily rhythms. This will also ensure a balance between home and school life.3. Bring joy to lunchboxesLunchtime can be a highlight of the day, not just for kids but for parents, too! What you pack in your child’s lunchbox can really brighten their day. Of course, it’s important to include a balanced and nutritious meal with items like sandwiches, carrots and fruit. But why not add a touch of fun with a tasty snack?Consider packing Hostess® CupCakes or Hostess® Kazbars™ to bring a smile to your child’s face during lunchtime. Both snacks offer a delightful treat that will make lunchtime something to look forward to. For an extra special touch, include a note of encouragement in your child’s lunchbox.And remember, you deserve a treat, too. Whether you’re packing your own lunch or keeping snacks on hand while running errands, don’t forget to enjoy a fun snack for yourself.Find Hostess® snacks and other treats at grocery stores nationwide and visit HostessCakes.com to discover a variety of delicious, joyful snacks.4. Set up a homework stationIn an age of technology and distraction, homework can feel like a chore, but setting up a homework station can help your child focus on their tasks. To create a successful homework station, designate a quiet place in your home and organize the space with a sturdy desk, pencils, pens, paper and any other supplies your student may need to complete their assignments with ease.5. Be prepared for sports eventsIf you’re the parent of an athlete, you know that showing up for the games isn’t the only way to show your support. Bringing fun snacks, treats and drinks to sports events can show your child how much you’re invested in their sport.You won’t always have time to prepare homemade snacks before the big game, so save time and stress by picking up a delicious premade snack such as Hostess® Kazbars™ that the whole team, including parents, will enjoy. This simple act can bolster team spirit and help celebrate the big win.Beat the back-to-school bustle with these five simple tips. Not only will it make your life easier, but you’ll set your family up for success all year long.