This school year I will have three children in elementary school. The thought of getting home from work at 3:00 pm and being met at 3:15 with three hungry, hot, tired children with backpacks filled with activities, homework, and papers to sort through while planning and fixing dinner (not to mention coordinating rides to extracurricular activities) is enough to push me right over the edge of the stress cliff. Chaos and a complete loss of control sum up the past years’ after school experience in my home.

This year, however, is the year of enlightenment. Having learned from the last 6 years’ mistakes I am vowing to powerfully move forward with a positive mental outlook and decree of self-control. I have designed a 6-Step Strategy that is certain to prevent those senseless havoc-filled school nights from revisiting the Groux household.

I share these here in case you might relate to my past pain.

6 Steps to Prevent Stress During the School Year

1. Have all family members living at home attend a family meeting. (I encourage weekly family meetings to provide a forum to make changes and share information.)

For Example: Every Sunday night from 6:00-6:30 the family gathers in the den.

2. Allow input from everyone regarding homework, dinner and bedtime routines.

For Example: Phone or computer use (IM) only after homework is completed.

3. Discuss expectations with respect to grades, school behavior, and homework assignments and establish agreed upon consequences for situations where expectations are not met.

For Example: Mid-term grades below B will result in no television until grade is pulled up.

4. Find ways to alleviate the stress around dinner preparation time.

For Example: Prepare dinner meal the night before or (if possible) while kids are in school. (Use Basha’s internet grocery delivery service to save time.)

5. Designate a 10-minute "Backpack Time" for each child where you discuss what was learned, discovered, graded, and assigned each day.

6. Limit activities, sports, lessons, and socializing to ensure your family time and down time are plentiful. (Or at least occurring)

Remember that a child’s stress level increases during the school year just as yours does. Parental involvement can be a supportive and calming factor for a child. Most importantly, keep your stress down. This will be a tremendous step in keeping a peaceful environment in which your children can thrive this school year.

Want advice on your issue? Email Askcarole@abc15.com and watch for her response on "Carole’s View from the Couch" Thursdays on ABC 15s "Sonoran Living".