August Editor's Letter

Didn’t I just write about the start of summer and how much I enjoy the time off from school? How in the world did August arrive so quickly?!? Ready or not, it’s here, and it’s time to get prepared. Never fear, KC Parent has you covered.  When planning the editorial for this August issue, I wanted articles that would help make back-to-school time less stressful in your home (and mine!). Just the sight of the back-to-school ads makes my blood pressure rise, so I obviously need all the help I can get. From making the most of the few minutes you have with your kids each morning to fun once the bell rings and everything in between, our back-to-school guide will help you stay on course.

Confession time. The school year chore that I dislike the most is making lunches. I really, really dislike it. Why? I’m not 100 percent sure. Part of it is trying to come up with varied options so that my girls aren’t eating the same thing every day (Like I did as a child—for one solid year I ate a cheese sandwich for lunch. Two slices of white bread, cheese and mayonnaise. Yuck!). Another reason is that making lunches causes me about 15 minutes of extra work in the morning before sending them off to school. I’d personally rather use those 15 minutes for sleep. I also want my girls to eat a nutritious lunch, and I find it a challenge to pack healthy options. Are school lunches the healthier choice? Olathe mom Jessica Heine looks at school lunches vs. homemade lunches. And, if anyone has any tips to help ease the lunch-making stress in my home, I’m all ears!

Whether lauded or loathed, cheered or jeered in your home, the school year is upon us, and I hope that yours is off to a smashing start!