Timeline for Preparing for Back to School

It may still be summer, but before you know it it will be time to start preparing for back to school. To help, we’ve come up with a timeline with some simple tips that will keep you organized and get your kids excited for the first day of school.

Over the Summer:

• Keep your kids’ reading up by making it a point to have reading time over the summer.
  Many local libraries offer fun summer reading programs for different age levels. Also take a look and see if your child’s school provides a summer reading list.
  Tip: If your family is on the go a lot, try audio books. They’re great in the car for summer road trips.
• If your child had any weaker subjects in the previous school year, set aside some time over the summer to practice those subjects. Remember to keep it fun! We found a list on Very Well Family of educational websites for kids to help you get started.

1-2 Weeks Before:

• Get the school supply list from your child’s school to make sure you have all the required supplies. Generally No. 2 Pencils, Erasers, White & Colored Paper, Notebooks, Highlighters, Glue/Glue Sticks, Folders, Binders, Calculators, Index Cards, Rulers, and Scissors are good to keep on hand! If needed, you may also want to pick up a new backpack, lunch box, and computer/tablet, and first day of school outfits. You can also check out this helpful article from Good House Keeping, which lists what supplies are typically needed in every grade level from Kindergarten to College! Be sure to go to our store for folders, binders, paper and more!
  Tip: Bring your kids with you to shop for any supplies they can pick out on their own, like a backpack, notebooks, or a first day of school outfit. Allowing them to pick things they like will help them feel more confident and excited about starting a new grade.
• Fill out any school paperwork.
• Meal planning is a great time saver for busy families during the school year. Plan and cook your meals ahead of time so it’s just grab and go in the morning. Try our meal planner printable to keep organized.
• Start getting everyone back into an early bedtime routine. This will make the transition easier and help to avoid running late on the first day of school.
• Get kids excited by doing crafts. Check out our post here for some ideas.

The Night Before:

• Pack backpacks with supplies.
• Make sure cell phones and any devices needed for school, such as laptops or tablets, are fully charged.
• Prep and pack lunches. Try our lunch note printables to add a fun surprise for your kids!
• Lay out clothes and shoes.
• Go to bed early.
• Set alarms.

The First Day:

• Wake up early.
• Eat a healthy breakfast.
• Double check that you have everything before heading out the door.
• Have a great first day!