5 Back to School Tips

Summer is coming to an end, and for most of us, back-to-school prepping is on our minds. Preparing for the new school year can be overwhelming with all the sales, shopping, and paperwork. Here are some helpful tips to help you prepare for school while maintaining a stress-free environment.

Make back-to-school shopping fun. Get the kids involved by giving them choices. Allow them to pick out new outfits (within budget) and supplies that show off their personalities. Schools should have a school supply list posted online or will hand one out during registration.

Packing lunches and making breakfast every morning, while trying to get the kids dressed and teeth brushed can be a juggling act and cause unwanted stress. Instead, prep lunches over the weekend for the entire week and make breakfast the night before or opt for something quick and easy like cereal or fresh fruit.

Most schools will have a “Back-to-School Night," this is the perfect time to meet your student's new teacher and learn about their goals for the new school year. Visit the classroom and get acquainted with the layout; this will help your student feel more comfortable and confident when the first day of school comes around.

Dedicate an area for your student to work and learn. You could even build a desk on a budget too. Place the desk in a quiet, distraction-free place that’s well organized. Stock up on school supplies such as tray organizers and file folders. Staying organized will help reduce stress and create an environment best for learning.

Getting back into the school routine can be challenging. Sticking to a consistent routine will help your student succeed. Over a few weeks slowly move bedtimes and wakeup times back to what they should be during the school year. Layout your student's schedule on a whiteboard, block out school schedules, holidays, and test days to help prepare your student for daily activities.

Are you or your child heading to college for the first time? While you won’t need everything that younger students need to go back to school, there are a few things to keep in mind.

A USB drive along with your basic back-to-school essentials - notebooks, pens, and folders, will help you stay organized throughout the semester. If you’re living on campus, you may not have access to a full kitchen for meals. Some items like a mini waffle iron or a single-serve coffee maker may come in handy throughout the year. (Just be sure to check your campus guidelines first to see what items you’re allowed to have in your dorm.) Finally, don’t forget to make your space your own. Adhesive wall strips can help you hang pictures, lights, and other decorations without damaging walls!