Mastering the Art of Back-to-School Planning: Tips and Tricks
Summer is already halfway through, and before we know it, schools will open their doors again. Back to school is a stressful time of year for parents, with many things to do before the first day of school. Back-to-school planning can be daunting, but with some organization and planning, you can have a stress-free start to the school year. In this blog post, we’ll cover some essential tips and tricks to help you master the art of back-to-school planning.
The first step in back-to-school planning is to get organized. A great way to do this is by creating a back-to-school checklist. This checklist should include everything your child needs, from school supplies to backpacks and clothing. A list will help you stay on track and ensure all essential items are added to the list. You can create your checklist or use one of the many online templates.
2. Start shopping early to avoid the rush.
Once you have your checklist, start shopping early to avoid the last-minute rush. Retailers often have great back-to-school deals; shopping early will give you time to find the best prices. You can also avoid crowds and get the exact items your child needs before they sell out. Remember to take advantage of online shopping, as it can save time and money. My top 10 stores for school shopping are:
1. Amazon (amazon.com): Amazon offers many school supplies, textbooks, and electronics. Its user-friendly interface, quick delivery, and customer reviews make it a convenient one-stop shop for all your back-to-school needs.
2. Walmart (walmart.com): Walmart’s online store provides affordable prices and a wide range of school essentials, from stationery to clothing. They often have special back-to-school deals and bundles, making it budget-friendly.
3. Target (target.com): Target is known for its trendy and stylish school supplies, backpacks, and clothing. They offer various options for all age groups, and their website allows you to filter products by grade or category easily.
4. Staples (staples.com): Staples focuses on office and school supplies, making it a go-to destination for everything from notebooks to calculators. Their online platform has a helpful School Supplies Center section to streamline your shopping experience.
5. Office Depot (officedepot.com): Similar to Staples, Office Depot provides a wide range of school essentials and often offers discounts during the back-to-school season. Their website features helpful guides and checklists for different grade levels.
6. Etsy (etsy.com): Etsy is a fantastic choice for unique and personalized school supplies and accessories. You can find handmade items, custom-designed backpacks, and other creative offerings from independent sellers.
7. eBay (ebay.com): eBay is great for finding new and second-hand items at competitive prices. It’s an excellent option for parents looking to save money on textbooks, electronics, and more.
8. Best Buy (bestbuy.com): Best Buy specializes in electronics, making it ideal for older students who need laptops, tablets, or other tech gadgets for their studies.
9. Michaels (michaels.com): If you or your kids enjoy crafting, Michaels offers a wide array of art supplies and DIY materials to add a personal touch to back-to-school items.
10. JetPens (jetpens.com): JetPens is a paradise for stationery lovers, with a vast collection of high-quality pens, pencils, and other writing instruments worldwide.
3. Establish a school year routine.
A routine can help your child adjust to the new school year. Establishing a routine that includes set bedtimes, meals, and study times can help your child get into a good rhythm and improve their performance in school. Before the school year starts, try to get your child into a routine that closely mirrors their school schedule. Start this routine a week or two before school starts to make the transition easier. The Nurse Drea School routine is listed below:
Weekday School Day Routine:
Morning:
1. Wake up at a consistent time each day to establish a routine.
2. Get dressed and groomed (brush teeth, wash face, etc.).
3. Have a nutritious breakfast to fuel the day.
School Hours: 4. Attend and actively participate in classes and activities.
After-School: 9. Arrive home or to an after-school program.
1. Have a healthy snack and take a short break to unwind.
2. Spend some time on homework or studying.
3. Engage in physical activity or play outdoors for exercise and fresh air.
4. Participate in hobbies or creative activities (e.g., drawing, music, crafting).
5. Spend quality time with family and share about the school day.
6. Help with age-appropriate chores or responsibilities.
7. Relax with some downtime, reading, or screen time (limited and age-appropriate).
8. Eat dinner as a family and discuss the day’s events.
Evening: 18. Prepare belongings for the next school day (pack backpack, choose outfit).
1. Establish a calming bedtime routine (e.g., bath, reading a book, dimming lights).
2. Set a consistent bedtime to ensure enough sleep for the next day.
Note: Keep in mind that this routine can vary based on the child’s age, school hours, extracurricular commitments, and family preferences. The most important aspect is to provide a structured and nurturing environment that supports the child’s growth, learning, and overall well-being. Additionally, flexibility is vital as children may have special events, sports practices, or other activities that might require routine adjustments.
Getting involved with school activities can benefit both you and your child. It’s a great way to meet other parents and get to know the school community. Additionally, it can help your child adjust to the school environment and make new friends. There are many ways to get involved, from volunteering at school events to attending PTA meetings.
Communicating with your child’s teacher is essential for a successful school year. Establishing an open line of communication early on can help you stay informed about your child’s progress and address any issues as they arise. Consider attending parent-teacher conferences, sending regular emails or notes, and scheduling periodic check-ins with your child’s teacher. Good communication can help you be your child’s best advocate and ensure they have the support they need to succeed.
Back-to-school planning can seem overwhelming, but with some organization and preparation, you can make the process less stressful and more enjoyable. Start with a checklist to stay organized, shop early to avoid the rush, establish a school-year routine, get involved with school activities, and practice good communication with your child’s teacher. These small steps can make a big difference in helping your child adjust to the new school year and make the most of their education. Remember to take a deep breath, stay positive, and enjoy this exciting time with your child.