Top 5 Tips to Prepare for Back-To-School

Get Organized & Ready For School

Download the full Back-to-School checklist here.
​

Summer is halfway through and you know what that means... school is just around the corner (all the parents rejoice).  I don’t know about you, but I love back-to-school season – it’s like that scene from You’ve Got Mail, “Don’t you just love New York in the fall? It makes me want to buy school supplies.” 

​There’s just something about the smell of new paper and freshly sharpened pencils that gives me a little thrill (tell me I'm not alone here, people).  If getting back to the grind makes you a little angsty, fear not -  here are my top 5 tips to get you organized & ready for school...

1. Get your paperwork in order. ​If your LD (little dear) is entering school for the first time or you are moving to a new area, make sure you’ve checked the school district’s website for any forms and documentation necessary for school registration. While you’re at it, update any medical forms and confirm that your kids are up-to-date on their immunizations.
2. Plan your extracurricular activities. Now’s the time to start researching what activities pique your LD’s interest. Some programs like art, dance, or science club may be offered directly through your school, but don’t dawdle; those slots tend to fill up quickly. Also, start planning your after-school care – can your son or daughter hang out with a neighbor? Do you need to sign up for an extended day program? Things to think about.
3. Get back to your routine. Eating and sleeping schedules tend to lax over the summer. Gradually adjust meals and bedtimes in 10 – 15 minute increments to get your kids back on their normal schedule.  Side note; double-check your school start time as schedules can changed over the summer (ours did!). Also, if your school has required summer reading, make sure your child starts now if they haven't already!
4. Create a study space. Do your kids have a quiet place to do homework? Children can focus better when they have a dedicated space with minimal distractions.  Have an inbox or dedicated drop-zone for their backpack and homework. Give them a calendar so they can always see what’s coming in the week (s) ahead (have your child fill it out, if possible).  Try and keep their school supplies readily available and in easy reach.
5. Go shopping. Look up your state’s tax-free weekend before you drop major dough on new clothes and school supplies. Run through your kiddo's closet and check to see if their clothes still fit, if not – donate, toss, or store them for their little brother or sister. Determine if their backpacks and lunch boxes are still in good shape. Print out their school supply list before your head to the store and pick up some labels for their clothes & supplies. I've used LabelDaddy and MabelsLabels with great success.

Fun Tip:  Did you know Target has a School List Assist? They instantly match supplies to your school’s list. Mind. Blown.
 

This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using this link. 

Ultimate Back-to-School Combo Pack