Got the Back to School Blues?

So it's that time of year again..Back to School! Whether you're the one going back to school or you have a child in school, the first week back is usually the toughest because everyone (including the teachers) are getting back into their routines and getting used to not sleeping in 'til noon. For me, I always enjoyed going back to school. Of course I liked getting 2-Hour Delays and School Closings as much as the next kid... but overall, I pretty much enjoyed going to school. The older I got, I think the more I started to actually like school because I saw it as a chance to hang out with friends, learn new things, and get involved in activities. However, I know several people who absolutely dreaded going back to school! If you're one of those people, don't worry! Thankfully everyone has a different educational experience which means there's plenty of room to make the best out of it.

If you find yourself with a case of The Back to School Blues which can range from"dreading to seeing the same people every year" to "I miss summer" or if you're in the stage where "the birds have left the nest", then I have just the medicine for you! In doing some brainstorming with a little extra help from the world wide web, I have found some easy, simple crafts that can help cushion the blow of the Back to School Blues. It doesn't matter what stage you're at. These crafts are perfect students, teachers, parents, coaches, and tutors can also use these ideas as well.

1. Covering Your Textbooks

If you go to a school where you are required to have some sort of cover on your textbooks then I suggest customizing them to your heart's content! Please make sure to be careful decorating on your book so as not to cause damage. Now in order to cover your textbooks you can either purchase the stretchable fabric covers which are found in most stores, or another good material is brown paper (like from a grocery). I've seen some people use newspaper, but it usually has to be applied in layers because newspaper is so thin. Whatever material you use make sure that it is strong and can be removed after you're finished with the book (So don't duct tape or glue material to the book!) Once you have it covered, think of it as your canvas. You can draw on it, apply stickers, add some ribbon for instant bookmarking, or anything you want! Here's some really cool ideas on how to decorate your books:

2. Door/Locker Decorations

This particular craft I found to be very popular in high school and college, plus there's really no right or wrong way to do this project. These decorations are perfect for organizations, sports, clubs, or just making something fun with friends! These are also really good "secret weapons" in terms of helping to promote organizations. For example if you're involved in Band and you're trying to get others to join- why not make special decorations for the band members and then people will know who to talk to if they would like to join. Door/Locker Decorations are a good way to show off your personality and involvement with your school. Teachers, you can also make one for your students' seats, lockers, hangers, etc. Parents, these can be a good activity if you have a younger child who would like to have some special attention among their classmates. If you have a child in college you can always make some school spirit decorations and send them to your kids. You're being crafty and keeping in touch with your child while they're away. SO SIMPLE!!! Just find some construction paper, cardstock, any material you can find really and you're set! These are some pictures of some door decorations I created in college. I made these for my sorority, Phi Mu, but don't be limited to just what I've done. Use quotes, lyrics, pictures from the internet, anything that will spark your imagination is fair game!

These are just a few of the many wonderful Back to School crafts you can find!!! All you need is a good imagination, a little creativity, and just a few materials to get you started. I'll bring you more craft ideas this week that should help kick start your children's school year on the right foot, so stay tuned for more ideas. If you have some suggestions for craft ideas, give me a shout in the comments section. All creative minds are welcomed!