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Whether it's the first year of preschool or the last year of elementary school, September brings excitement and sometimes a touch of apprehension to every child heading back to school. And there's always preparation including everything from kids clothes to school supplies. These tips can help your child, and you, ease into the new school year as calmly and cheerfully as possible.
- Create a central family calendar that helps everyone keep track of busy schedules. Choose or create a calendar with large squares that can hold plenty of information. Assign a different color for each family member, then post the calendar in an easy-to-access location such as the kitchen. Make sure there's a place nearby for relevant information such as school lunch menus, field trips, sports practice schedules, or class lists.
- Back-to-school sales on school supplies begin mid-July, and stock starts to dwindle soon after. Try to obtain a list of supplies needed by then and do your shopping early. If you can't get a list, just stock up on the basics you know you'll need, like paper, pencils, markers, erasers, and new children's clothing..
- On the other hand, it's often best to buy children's clothing when they go on sale after school starts. Make sure you head to the store with a well-thought-out list in hand and a budget in mind. Involve your child in the process: Together, look through catalogs or online to get some ideas and ask her/him for their favorite colors and styles.
- To stretch your budget, look for classic items like denim jeans and jackets. Remember , clothes that feel great , get worn more often. Cotton, corduroy and flannel are comfortable, easy-care fabrics.
- Kids clothes that can be layered are also good value. Try to stick with solid colors in fabrics like cool, breathable cotton, to make layering and mixing as easy as possible.
- If your child is attending a new school, try to visit with him/her a few days before school starts and walk through the building. Show your child how to get from the entrance to their classroom, and to the bathroom, lunchroom, and other important places.
- A chaotic morning can throw off an entire day. Plan ahead to try to make the mornings as sane as possible. In the evening, lay out children's' clothes for the next day and set the breakfast table. Make sure backpacks are packed and jackets and sneakers are located.
