I probably peak as a mom around 2:55 p.m. I'm loving, nurturing, patient… And then, around 3, my kids get home. It's downhill from there because the after-school shuffle turns me into a frazzled mess. Between backpacks overflowing with crumpled papers, hungry cries, and the daily "Do you have homework?" interrogation, it's enough to make me dream of a life on a deserted island (with reliable Wi-Fi, of course). So, how about we go in with a plan this school year? Try one of these 3 after-school routines to help you regain control of the post-school chaos and create a smoother transition for everyone. Routine #1: The Energizer Bunny Routine After-school routines are the perfect way to channel the boundless energy most elementary schoolers seem to have. The key is to convert that enthusiasm into something productive (or at least not destructive!). Start with a welcome wagon: Avoid the inevitable "I'm hungry!" meltdown by having ...