Back to School Rhythms for Purposeful Families

Back to school. Here we are again.

Tax free weekends, school supplies shopping, dorm essentials lists, sports schedules, and a new cadence.

New seasons often bring new hopes, challenges, and opportunities for connection. Whether you have kids going to school, studying at home, off at college, or don’t have kids of your own, we encourage you to consider introducing one or two new rhythms this fall.

Kids at home?

Weekly family calendar meetings

The school year is busy! When my kids were in upper elementary, I realized the calendar I diligently managed was only visible to me; my kids had no idea what to expect week to week. We posted a chalkboard calendar in the kitchen and instituted a Sunday evening discussion to review it together.

Protect one meal

Whether it’s breakfast or dinner, do what it takes to protect as many of these mealtimes as possible. It provides great security and enhances relationships through storytelling and reflection.

Daily rituals

This could mean waking up to the same song each morning, praying in the car on the way to school, or setting a devotion or prayer time each night.

Young adult kids?

Family group chat

Technology is a big part of our lives—so utilize it! Share anything from memes to prayer requests.

Family game

Wordle, anyone? My family still does the daily Wordle and texts our results to each other. Not only does it fuel our need to compete, but it keeps us having fun together!

Memorize scripture together

Pick a monthly, quarterly, or annual Bible verse/passage to memorize as a family. You could use a tool like Dwell Differently or choose your own verses; make it a game, offer prizes, get creative!

Empty nest?

Weekly family call

Block a time on everyone’s calendar. With one kid in high school, one in college, and another in grad school, we do this on Sunday evenings. Whether it’s 5 minutes or 25 minutes, it’s good to see each other and share what’s happening.

Claim a weekend

Each season, find a weekend you can all get together, either at home or as a getaway. You can offer to help cover flights, parking, rideshares, hotel rooms—whatever it takes!

Do a service project

If you already live close, you can serve together. Find a ministry you already give to, that one of your kids is passionate about, or that’s new to all of you!

No kids?

Invest like they’re yours

When my daughter went to college last year, she was tremendously blessed by a sweet alumna who “adopts” kids each year. She has created a family of students to invest in through tailgates, finals-week-dinners, and miscellaneous coffees.

Look for ways to invest in those around you. Your perspective and time are priceless! For example:

• Check with your church for volunteer opportunities in kid, youth, or college ministries.
• National ministries like Embrace Grace, Awana, or LifeWise Academy offer structured opportunities to serve kids in your community.
• Volunteer with a local school or nonprofit as a tutor, van or bus driver, or coach.
• Be an adopted grandparent or bonus buddy for a young family in your church. Have them over for dinner, babysit their kids, or lead a discipleship study.

Your daily decisions are shaping your character and the culture of your family.

What can you do to restart your intention to live with purpose in this new season?