By Trish Garduño | MAY 2026

Every year, it happens – a gentle yet grounding reminder that summer is coming to an end, and school season is once again just around the corner.  

I tell myself that I am prepared for it. After all, I have been doing this for 12 academic years already. But somehow, as the opening of classes approaches, I find myself anxious about facing the wave of preparations, challenges, and unexpected stress that come with the back-to-school season.  

As a mother of a 12^th grader, I can say that I am somehow a pro when it comes to school preps. From school supplies to schedules, I have learned to manage my time and resources over the years. However, despite the experience, there will still be moments that test my patience and all I can do is remind myself , “GIRL KAYA MO YAN”.  

Because back-to-school season does not just prepare kids – it prepares moms, too.  

So, to help you be back-to-school ready, let me share a few things I have learned from the chaos and wins of this season:  

1. Number one: be healthy.  
   Back-to-school season will demand a lot of your time and energy – from waking up early to prepare breakfast and baon, to sending them off to school and picking them up in the afternoon. You simply cannot keep up with all of this if you are running in empty. That is why taking care of yourself matters. Drink your vitamins, get enough sleep, and eat well.  
   
   
2. Second: make a checklist.  
   Whether digital or analog, it always helps to have a list of your to-dos and to-buys. This way, you can better plan and manage both your time and budget.  
   
   A simple checklist can make this whole season feel more organized and less overwhelming.  
   
   
3. And lastly – the most important tip: keep calm.
   Do not panic, even when your kid tells you at 10 p.m. that he needs to bring an illustration board tomorrow.  
   
   These moments will happen more often than you think, and our instinct is always to stress and rush. But often, things can be managed when you stay calm.  You can check what you already have at home and figure out the most possible solution. Everything does not need to be perfect – what matters is showing up for your child.  
   

I hope these tips will help you be back-to-school ready and just so you know, you are doing a great job, momma!  

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