If your children have not returned to school yet, they will be shortly. For most in my area, school starts the day after Labor Day. It can be a hectic time if you are not prepared.
Are you ready?
I have gathered some tips to help you prepare for back to school that you might find helpful.
1. Review the kids' wardrobes and have them try on their clothes. Have a fashion show! Make sure to do this before you go shopping for new clothes so you know exactly what you need. Donate or pass down clothing to another child. If you do need new clothing, pay attention to sales to save money.
2. Complete necessary medical forms in time for the return to school. You might need to schedule an appointment with your pediatrician for shots and signatures so allow enough time to do so. If food allergies are a concern, contact you child's teacher to discuss necessary precautions.
3. Finalize arrangements for after-school care which might involve transportation, payment arrangements and scheduling of pick-up. Be sure the provider knows who is permitted to pick up your child at the end of the day.
4. Purchase an alarm clock for those children who have more difficulty getting up that gets progressively louder or put one on the opposite side of the room to get them out of bed to shut it off.
5. Pack lunches the night before to save time in the morning. Plan out lunches a week at a time and have a sturdy lunch box or bag for each child. Purchase fruit snacks and granola bars, for example, in bulk to make sure they are always on hand.
6. Use a family calendar to keep up with the kids' busy schedules. Indicate half days and school holidays for the year. Keep track of extra curricular activities. Check the calendar each evening to be sure you are prepared for the following day.
7. Organize the paperwork. The paper starts coming through the door the first day so be prepared. Create an "in" and "out" bin for processing. Use a bulletin board for important information.
8. Adjust bedtime starting now. Gradually move the kids' bedtime up by about 15 minutes each night so they will be well adjusted when its time for school to start. You want to be sure they get plenty of sleep.
9. Set up a homework station that provides enough space, good lighting and supplies that are needed. Children will be more productive when they have a designated place to do their homework.
10. Finally, enjoy the last of the lazy days of Summer with the kids. This is the time to spend doing things you all enjoy before the hectic school season begins.
What tips would you like to share for getting ready for back to school? Are you ready?
