Tip #1: School Supplies

If you haven’t already done so, be sure to get your “school supplies list” from your child’s school. If the school is not available, retailers like Walmart and Target have a great feature on their website where you can enter in your school name and location to retrieve the school supply list. These locations even provide you with the list to order directly online for shipping to your home or local store. Take a few minutes to check out the Walmart Supply List  and Target Supply List. Find ways to save on school supplies here. 

Tip #2: Before and Aftercare

Depending on the age of your child and your situation, you may need before and aftercare. Make sure you’re aware of the school hours to determine if you need before and/or aftercare. This is especially important for parents with young children, as this may not be something you’re used to. The before and aftercare hours are slightly different depending on which option you choose. It is recommended that you reach out to your child’s school to discuss an option that’s best for you and your family.

Tip #3: Transportation

Whether your child will ride the school bus or driven by a family member, it’s important to speak to your child’s school about their options. If your child is taking the school bus, you may want to see if you have neighbors with children who are riding the bus so that they can walk to and from the bus together. If you’re driving your child to and from school, it’s important to know the school’s drop-off and pick-up procedures. You can find out transportation details by contacting your child’s school.

Tip #4: Meet the Teacher

If you haven’t already done so, you will want to schedule a time to meet your child’s teacher. It’s always nice to put a face to the name, discuss learning plans, and discover the recommended form of communication whether it be email; phone; text; website posts etc.

Tip #5: Develop a Sleep Routine

If your child has been staying up later during the summer, now is the time to adjust bedtimes that work best with a school schedule. Starting a bedtime routine by going to bed a little earlier and waking up a little earlier each day prior to the start of school can be extremely helpful to get you and your child back on track for their first day.

Tip #6: Get Organized

Getting into a routine can be tough, but a little organization can make a smoother transition. If you can, try to prep school snacks and lunches the night before school. Start by making sure you have the groceries you need. Single serving snacks are always easy, but you may consider buying in bulk and creating your own single servings with small snack bags. This is something you can do ahead of time so it is easier to assemble your child’s lunches. It can also be helpful to lay out clothes the night before school and set your child’s backpack by the door with everything needed for their day. Calendars can also help to keep record of assignment deadlines, tests, extra-curricular activities, etc.