Getting a Head Start on Back-to-School

Hard to believe that we have to start thinking about back-to-school preparations! Didn’t summer just arrive? Chances are it’s still summer weather, but with kids going back to school in August, now is the perfect time to set up systems in your home to make the transition back to school a smooth and easy one. Following are a few of our favorite tips to get the school year started off on the right foot.

Organize a pantry lunch station with favorite non-perishable drinks and snacks. When school starts, your youngest kids can help you prepare lunch and your older kids will easily be able to find what they need for school.

Make sure backpacks (or do you call them knapsacks?) and lunch boxes are functioning. Zippers work. Check. Water bottle holder. Check. Cushioned insert for the laptop. Check.

Set up a filing system for school papers for the new school year. Creating a paper filing system now will make the start of the school year easier for you. Make files for each child, with sub-labels such as homework, signatures, special art work.

Shop now for school supplies. It’s easy to pick up the basics now…pencils, paper, highlighters, markers and the like.

Simplify Your School Morning Routine. From making sure that everyone has easy access to their school clothes, toothbrush and breakfast foods, make sure that you put together a routine that works for everyone in the home.

Organize and declutter your exit/entry. If you have a mudroom or entryway in your home, make sure it’s decluttered and organized and everyone knows where their items belong. Whether it’s a cubby for backpacks or a shoe rack, gather the items the night before so no one is frantically looking for their text books or sports equipment.

I know. It’s hard to get in the school mindset when it’s sunny and 85 degrees outside. If you follow these tips, or at least some of them, the back-to-school season will be off to a smooth start. I promise!