Are you feeling the push-pull of knowing you should start preparing for back to school but still wanting to enjoy the relaxation of summer? If you’re anything like me, after the 4th of July, my brain begins to shift gears ever so slightly. Seeing back to school ads and signs makes me want to begin prepping for the upcoming year, yet I’m not quite ready to give up my summer fun.
In this blog post I’m sharing a few easy, no-pressure ways to recharge and feel a little more prepared for back-to-school—without giving up your summer peace and quiet.
1. Clean Up Your Saved Ideas
Take a few minutes to scroll through your Pinterest boards, saved Instagram posts, or even your desktop folders. Delete anything that no longer excites you and only keep your favorites. You’ll be so glad come August when you can actually find that adorable math activity or bulletin board template you saved months ago.
2. Prep a Few Student Gifts
If you like to have a small treat ready for Meet the Teacher Night, the first day, or student birthdays, summer is the perfect time to slowly gather supplies and print a few gift tags. There’s no rush—just one or two bags while your favorite show plays in the background.
🎁 Find student gift ideas and editable gift tags here
🎂 Check out my favorite student birthday ideas here
3. Make Your First Week Read-Aloud List
Gather your favorite back-to-school books or browse your local library for some new titles. I love visiting the library during the summer—it’s quiet, peaceful, and something about those beautiful picture books always gets me excited for the new school year.
📚 See my favorite beginning-of-year books here
Want to turn those read-alouds into fun crafts or easy student-created bulletin boards? (Because hello, instant class decor and a great first week activity!)
🖍️ Try these simple crafts & back-to-school displays
4. Listen to Uplifting Teacher Podcasts
You don’t have to be “in work mode” to get inspired. Pop in some earbuds during your morning walk, car ride, or laundry session and listen to something that lifts you up or gives you a fresh idea. Sometimes the best thoughts come when you’re not even trying!
🎧 Browse my list of podcast picks for early elementary teachers
5. Celebrate Last Year’s Wins
Take a few quiet moments to jot down the routines, systems, or lessons that made your life easier last year. Save that list for when it’s time to set up your classroom again—it’s a helpful reminder that you don’t have to reinvent the wheel. You’ve already done amazing things.
If none of this sounds good right now, that’s totally okay. Summer is for rest and renewal. Because let’s be real—rest is productive! When you’re ready, these light tasks will be right here waiting for you.
If you’re looking for more low-stress inspiration as you start to ease back into school mode:
📝 Browse my back-to-school blog posts here
You’re doing amazing things—even when you’re doing nothing at all. 💛
Pin it for later!
