Back-to-school season brings plenty excitement for Rockford families, but it also comes with a few struggles parents know all too well.

I'm not a parent myself, so I can't personally relate to the chaos that comes with getting kids ready for a new school year.  But after hearing from local parents, it's clear that the transition from summer to school can be anything but easy.

Back-to-School Struggles Rockford Parents Know All Too Well

For some parents, bedtime is the first battle.  One parent joked, "Bed time, I have nocturnal trash pandas this isn't going to be easy," capturing the challenge of convincing kids that summer nights are over and it's time to get some real sleep.  After weeks of later bedtimes and relaxed schedules, getting everyone back on a school-night routines can take some serious effort.

The comes the morning rush.  Waking sleepy kids, getting them dressed, fed and out the door on time can quickly turn the kitchen and bathroom into high-traffic zones.  One Rockford parent said the hardest part is "competing for the bathroom and kitchen space in the mornings."

And it's not just the logsticis.  For many parents, the emotional side can be even harder.  Someone even said "when you say bye, don't look back!  You'll cry like a baby like I did!!"

More: Back-to-School Anxiety Is Real for Illinois Students

Of course, there's also the shopping side of it.  Between school supplies, clothes and everything else kids need, parents have so much on their plate to get kids ready for the new school year.

Read More: Rockford Parents Share Smart Ways to Save on Back-to-School 

I may not be a parent and can't relate firsthand, but there Rockford parents make one thing clear: back-to-school season is a mix of excitement, stress, busy mornings and plenty of tears.