Why wait until January 1st? NOW is actually the perfect time to make resolutions. For many families, the start of the school year signifies a fresh start: Resetting the calendar, getting the family back on schedule, and hunkering down after summer vacation fun.

Embrace this idea and take time to examine yourself, your family life, and your household for inspiration on how to make this (school) year better than ever. Get started with these resolutions that top the list for families:

1. Eat healthy

Mealtime is less structured and more casual during summer, thanks to long, lazy days. When school resumes in the fall, it’s the perfect time to get back on track for nightly, healthy family dinners. It will require some planning ahead, but that saves money and keeps you from turning to less healthy options. This year, make meal planning a family affair.

• Choose a time that works for everyone and set a menu for the coming week or month, creating a grocery list of ingredients you’ll need as you go.
• If possible, try meals you can make ahead, perhaps on the weekend, and can be frozen and reheated later.
• Another great trick is to make double the portions to use for leftovers later in the week.

2. Be active

It may be tempting to crash on the couch at the end of a long day to rest. But believe it or not, regular exercise will actually increase your energy level and lower stress. Fall is a beautiful time of year to head outdoors and enjoy the changing of the seasons. Make it a family affair by going on walks in the evening, bike rides on weekends, or hiking. Check your local community calendar to find seasonal festivals, activities such as nature walks, and even family-friendly 5K races!

3. Get organized

It’s tough to stay on top of multiples schedules, paperwork, and keeping the house clean and clutter free. Back to school is a great time to get organized!

• Use your Cozi calendar to keep track of all your family appointments and activities. And be sure to share it with your family so everyone is on the same page!
• Set up folders for each child to place paperwork and notes from school in a predetermined area so you always know where to look.
• When it comes to chores, divide and conquer by creating a chore chart that lists what each family member is responsible for and when the chores need to be completed by.

4. Get involved

Get involved in your community now to give back, set an example for your children and teach compassion. Together, choose a charity or organization that you would like to help out. Maybe you’ll visit senior citizens several times a month, hand out food to the homeless with your church, volunteer at your local animal shelter, or collect toiletry supplies for those in need. The opportunities to help others are limitless and many places love to have children involved.

5. Grow closer

It’s not unusual for families to feel some disconnect during the school year. Busy schedules can prevent catching up and bonding time. Avoid falling into this trap by scheduling a family night once a week. Watch a movie together, play games, make dinner together, or choose another activity everyone enjoys. Encourage everyone to share how their week went and to discuss any troubles someone may have. Keep it fun and you'll find the kids reminding you about it!