Summer is coming to an end and your favorite local stores are filling up with pencils, pens, folders, calculators and much more. Back to School season is in full swing! Are you ready? Follow these few tips to make sure you and your children will start the year off with a bang!

Do your homework –

Make sure to do your homework before your kids head back to school. Where is your bus stop? Does it pick up in front of your apartment community? Do you know when school starts? When your kids will have days off? Head to your school’s website where there are many important dates and resources. You can find your school calendar, supply list, and many answers to questions you don’t even know you might have. Also, remember that your school’s counselors and teachers are always there to help!

Get Prepared –

If you are packing lunches, now is a good time to start stocking up on snacks, drinks and lunch items. Also, school supplies and uniforms are filling the stores and some great sales are going on right now. Many states have a tax free weekend where you can buy tax-free school supplies, clothes, shoes, and computers. Check to see if it is offered in your area. It would be a great time to check items of your to buy list!

Establish a Routine –

The lazy days of summer are almost gone and your children waking up after 10 AM will soon be in the past. Two weeks before school starts, start adjusting their bedtime and wake up time a little by little until you are on your normal school routine a few days before the first day of school.  You want to make sure your kids are awake, alert and ready for the 1st day of school, and not falling asleep at their desks.

Attend Open House –

If this your little one’s first day of kindergarten or your almost 18 year old’s senior year; open house is a must attend event! You will help you child get the lay of the land, meet their teacher and calm their nerves ahead of the first day of school. This is also a great time to buy school shirts, rent lockers, set up a lunch card or join the parent association. I highly recommend going every year.

Reagan is ready with her new backpack! Photo courtesy of Rachel Anderson

With school in full swing and homework every night, I know it can get a little crazy around your apartment. Check out these helpful tools for busy parents on the go! I hope you have a successful back to school season!