Back-to-School 2025: Don’t Let The Commotion Spoil The Joy

Well-being starts from within, according to today’s most influential wellness gurus. I remind myself of this every school year, but this one feels especially important as my son begins Kindergarten in September. My motto this time? Be more practical and less self-critical. As a Latina mom, I carry responsibility with a bit of dramatic flair—telenovela style!

Miami-based journalist Katy Ferrer, creator of Estilo Mamá—a go-to platform for parenting information with a Latinx scent—offers a fresh perspective to help us mamis apuradas embrace the back-to-school season.

She encourages taking moments to slow down and reconnect, even when days get hectic, reminding us that joy lives in the everyday. There’s beauty in the commotion, especially when you’re the steady foundation supporting your children’s emotions.

Her perspective has been shaped by her own experience as mom to eight-year-old Catalina, who starts third grade this fall. “You won’t be able to avoid feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or full of doubts on that first day of school. You’ll wonder a thousand things per second: Will they be treated well? Will they be hungry, too cold, too hot, comfortable, or uneasy? Every mom feels it—don’t try to fight it. We’ve all been there, and we all get through it. Every child needs this step, and it truly supports their emotional and psychological development. You’re doing great—really,” she says confidently.

In her daily life, Katy strikes a balance between a breezy attitude and practicality, especially when time is tight. “The truth is, I always leave everything until the last minute during back-to-school season. Somehow, a trip always comes up right before classes start,” she laughs, “but I usually buy school supplies online in bulk and arrive on time.”

Her focus is nourishing both Catalina’s body and heart. As a mom, she prioritizes simplicity while ensuring everything she offers is genuinely good. A bowl of Cinnamon Cheerios Protein with yogurt and fruit provides a delicious meal with a little extra protein that can keep her going any time of day.

She also nurtures Cata’s soul through daily positive, gratitude-filled affirmations, teaching her daughter to stay grounded amid fast-paced school routines.

Katy shares wisdom that forms the foundation of an energizing day for her family, reminding every mami to focus on creating a positive environment that fuels vitality and keeps their students motivated.

So breathe, exhale, and remember these tips when things get hectic at the start of this school year:

You always have a choice. When things derail—say, a flying handful of Cheerios lands everywhere just when you thought you could catch a break—take five seconds before reacting. Remember, imperfection is part of the magic. Tell yourself, “This too shall pass.” An anecdote—and a learning moment—will remain to share afterward. What matters most is being present.

A few extra minutes at the breakfast table, a warm embrace for your children, and something simple, comforting, and wholesome to eat, like Cinnamon Cheerios Protein with slightly warm milk—they go well with whatever type your little ones prefer—can help them find calm, even on the busiest days. These brief yet valuable pauses shape how they’ll carry themselves in the world for years to come.

Good energy doesn’t just happen. You create and fuel it with the best of what you have to give. You choose your words, tone, and attitudes to celebrate the good and handle the challenges that every household faces during school preparation. Practice your smile often. A joyful start doesn’t require perfection—just intention.

When you fill a space with joy, it lingers long after the moment has passed. Music effectively lifts spirits and provides the energy you need to get motivated for your routine.

Thankfulness is the key to a whole heart, as Katy says. Stop, look around, and be grateful for everything you have, even the messes and delays. Everything can be a blessing in disguise!

Mami, during this school season, practice patience and smile more often. And if things go off the rails for a bit, just breathe, turn on your favorite tunes, serve some Cinnamon Cheerios Protein to share, and remind yourself that rushed days don’t last forever!