Start the School Year with Purpose

Back to School Article - 8.10.22

Back to School & New Traditions

Summer may be coming to an end, but it’s not too late to plan for this next school year. Create new family goals and traditions you and your kids will love!

When we think of traditions, our minds immediately take us to holidays or birthdays. However, traditions don’t have to be limited to just these occasions! They can be created on ordinary days, too. Traditions make ordinary days EXTRAordinary—and extraordinary days are the days your kids won’t ever forget.

Traditions matter because they matter to kids. Consistent celebrations provide your kids with a sense of belonging and identity. They also help to instill family values that will last a lifetime. Traditions give children a deep sense of security as they find comfort in the consistency that traditions provide year after year. Rhythms of intentional celebration provide a sense of identity because it makes them feel valued. Extraordinary moments make kids feel extraordinary.

One of our goals in parenting is to raise kids who know who they are, who know they are loved and valued, and who are secure in being who God created them to be. Traditions create space to affirm these characteristics in our kids.

Let’s be intentional with this upcoming school year and turn ordinary days into extraordinary traditions. We can’t slow down or stop the calendar, but we ca­­­n create memories and traditions that will greatly impact our kids. Whether your kid is starting preschool or their last year of high school, it’s never too late to start a new tradition and make new memories.

You’ll never regret the effort, time, or money you put into creating traditions, but you may regret it if you don’t. And remember, traditions don’t have to be elaborate to be impactful! Even the simplest tradition will make a lasting impact on your kids.

Here are a few ideas to get you thinking:

  • Give your kid a new Bible on the first day of school every year.
  • Stop for doughnuts on the way to school if you see a red Ferrari—even if it means they’ll be late (my family’s personal favorite).
  • Go out for ice cream every Friday after school.
  • Write notes and Scripture verses and put in their lunchbox.
  • Read a Scripture verse together every morning.

Ready . . . set . . . go! Have a family planning meeting with pizza, popcorn, and popsicles in your pajamas and set goals for this new school year.

As our kids grow up, it can be so bittersweet. But remember, there is something beautiful in every season if you look for it—even if you have to create it.

For more on traditions, visit us on Pinterest!