The ADHD Back to School Reset You Actually Need
- Allison Converse
- Jan 2
- 3 min read
If Back to School season has you feeling scattered, overwhelmed, or like you’re already behind… you’re not alone. For ADHD brains, transitions hit hard, especially when routines shift, decisions pile up, and emotions are high. But here's the good news: with a few small resets, this season can feel more supported and doable.
This episode of The Gentle Reset, is all about navigating the mental load of back-to-school season with ADHD. I’m sharing how to reset your routines, reduce overwhelm, and find more ease during one of the busiest transitions of the year... without trying to do it all.
Why Back to School Feels So Big (Especially with ADHD)
Back to school season can feel like a rollercoaster. On one hand, you and your kids are ready for a fresh start and getting back into a rhythm. On the other hand, this season can bring a flood of emotions.
If you’ve felt the mental load of lunch prep, supply lists, IEP meetings, and schedule changes, it makes total sense. Because back to school still means a shift in rhythm, more demands, more structure and more decisions to make.
You're allowed to go at your own pace.
"Good enough" routines are still routines.
You don't have to do everything perfectly.
Start where you are. Pick one thing to make it easier.
You’re doing better than you think and small changes at home can go a long way.
Simple Home Resets That Actually Help
A few small home tweaks can make mornings less chaotic and transitions smoother- for you and your kids.
Let’s focus on real-life shifts that reduce stress in your home:
Print the supply list early and check what you already have.
Declutter kids’ clothes and shoes before the first day scramble.
Set up a drop zone with bins, hooks, and a place for clean socks.
Prep snacks or lunches in small batches - you don’t have to meal prep like a pro.
Ease into routines gradually instead of flipping a switch overnight.
All of these tips (and more) are inside my Free ADHD Mom’s Back to School Checklist. It also includes a follow-up with my favorite ADHD-friendly products to this season even easier.
A Homeschool Room That Finally Works
One of my clients was homeschooling her six kids and drowning in stuff. She felt like every time she tried to get organized, it didn’t stick. We started small, one shelf, one bin at a time, and created a space that actually worked for her family.
She said, “I didn’t feel shame for how my brain works. This gave me my confidence back.”
And three months later? The room was still working, and her kids were putting things away on their own.
That’s the kind of reset that lasts and it didn’t require more stuff. Just support and systems that actually work with ADHD brains.
Key Takeaways
You don’t have to do everything ALL at once.
A few simple home resets can make a big difference.
“Good enough” routines still count.
Let’s Stay Connected
🌐 Visit the Website – Learn more about ADHD-friendly support
📸 Follow on Instagram – Tips + encouragement in real life
📬 Get the Free Back to School Checklist – 10 simple tips to help your home feel calmer
Keep Reading?
If clutter has ever made you feel behind or not good enough, Overcoming Shame Around a Messy Home is a powerful reminder that your worth isn’t measured by mess and small shifts really can change everything.
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