As the summer days wane and the school year looms on the horizon, it’s time to start prepping for an organized school year. Let’s shift gears and start preparing for a smooth transition. Say goodbye to the lazy days of summer and hello to early mornings, routines and schedules. This can be a tough transition for both kids and parents, but an organized start can make this change much easier and less stressful. I am sharing my tips to start the new school year off with smiles.

Re-establishing Routine

With school back in session, a consistent sleep schedule is crucial. Start adjusting bedtimes and wake-up times a week before school begins. This gradual shift helps ease your child into the early mornings and sets them up for a productive day. And we all know a well rested kid is much more fun to be around in the mornings. Tired and grumpy is not a great way to start the day, for the kid or the parent.

School Supplies

Prepare a checklist for all needed school supplies. Check the school’s supply list and make your own checklist to ensure nothing is forgotten. Keep in mind, you will need some items for their homework station and at school. Have your kid work on organizing their new supplies. They can sort and label their items in a way that works for them. This will make it easy for them to find what they need for their assignments and know how to put everything back when they are done.

Meals & Snacks

When it comes to keeping your kid’s tummy full, planning ahead is key. Opt for nutritious, balanced options to keep those energy levels high for a full day of focus. Have your kids help choose their meal options. There are many breakfast choices that can be prepped for the week ahead for a quick warm up before school. Stock up on healthy snacks that are easy to grab when they come through the door starving after school. If they pack their lunch, get it ready the night before. This will be a huge time save for your busy morning.

Homework Station

Schedules

Designate a central area in the home as a command center for organizing school-related activities, along with any other schedule commitments for your child. Extracurricular activities can quickly fill up your family’s schedule. Create a calendar that includes all activities and their times, helping to avoid overcommitment. Stay in the know with all school activities. Sign up for any school communication channels, emails or parent portals, to stay in the know about updates.

Prepping for an organized school year will help you and your child can start each day with a positive attitude. This will help set the stage for a smooth and successful school year. Here’s to a fantastic start to back to school!