The start of a new school year brings more than new teachers, sharpened pencils, and busy schedules. It’s also a natural opportunity for families to pause, reset, and recommit to the routines and values that create a safe, healthy, and supportive home environment.
At Informed Families, we believe these daily habits do more than keep life organized—they play a powerful role in keeping kids safe from risky behaviors like underage drinking and drug use. That’s why we lead national initiatives like Family Day™, reminding parents that something as simple as sharing a meal together can make all the difference.
Between homework, after-school activities, and packed schedules, it’s easy for family time to get lost in the shuffle. But consistent routines—whether it’s a shared dinner, a bedtime chat, or a weekly family meeting—give children a sense of stability and belonging.
Research consistently shows that kids who feel connected at home are:
Less likely to experiment with drugs and alcohol
More likely to communicate openly about challenges
Better able to handle stress and peer pressure
When families stick to routines, children learn resilience, structure, and healthy coping skills that stay with them long after the school bell rings.
Looking for ways to make family time easier and more fun? Informed Families has resources to help you bring Family Day™ to life in your home.
Family Day Activities Guide: Get fresh ideas to spark conversation and keep everyone involved. [Download the PDF]
Activity Mats for Kids & Teens: Fun, interactive tools to make mealtime more engaging.
Family Interviews & Stories: Share your own traditions and learn from others. Check them out here!
And of course—every great family meal needs something delicious on the table. Try out our Family Day Recipes, like:
Arroz con Coco
– A traditional Colombian dish, perfect alongside fried fish.
Chilaquiles
– A flavorful Mexican favorite you won’t find at fast-food chains, made with crispy tortillas, salsa, and fresh toppings.
These resources make family meals more than just eating—they become meaningful opportunities to talk, laugh, and connect.
Back-to-school season can be stressful—for kids and parents alike. From early mornings to extracurriculars, everyone feels the pressure. Parents can use this season as a chance to model resilience, balance, and healthy decision-making.
When children see parents handle stress constructively—without turning to alcohol or unhealthy coping—they’re more likely to follow that example. The habits you set now show your kids how to navigate challenges throughout life.
Here are a few practical ways to bring more intention and connection into your family’s daily life:
Plan Family Dinners: Schedule at least 3–4 meals a week together, no phones. Whethere your eating out in the car before a little league game or a dessert or snack on the go! Its all about the conversations and screen free connections we are having.
Create Daily Check-Ins: A 10-minute chat before bed or after school can open the door to meaningful conversations.
Share Responsibilities: Assign age-appropriate chores to teach accountability and teamwork. [Download our chore chart!]
Set Clear Expectations: Talk openly about drugs, alcohol, and peer pressure before issues arise.
Celebrate Family Day™ Year-Round: Don’t wait for September—treat every family meal as a chance to connect and protect.
Back-to-school is more than a transition—it’s a fresh start. By recommitting to family routines and values—and celebrating traditions like Family Day™—parents can create a home where children feel safe, supported, and empowered to make healthy choices.
This season, make family unity a top priority. Small, consistent actions today can prevent big problems tomorrow. Together, we can build stronger families and keep kids drug-free.