The Importance of Back-to-School Preparation

It is almost that time again and the woes of back to school are vastly approaching. Somebody, please tell me where has the summer gone! One thing I know for sure, we all must start getting ready…..asap!

If you’re like me I know you want your kids to be successful this school year and getting prepared is the key to achieving that successful first day back and continuing to have a great school year. I read an article by Polish Perfect that talks about the keys to being prepared and why it’s so important in everyday life.

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Being prepared is not only needed to be successful, but it also helps reduce anxiety and fear. It also helps save time and as a busy mom, we don’t have time to waste.

Get Prepared

I am always keen on writing and making lists of all kinds. So creating a checklist to start is where you should begin. Holly at Productive Pete has very helpful tools that I've also used myself to stay organized. Writing down everything your child needs is essential. Keep your eyes open for when school supply lists become available. Children in different age groups may still have one or two of the same items on their list. Group items together so you’ll know how many you need to purchase. Check the school website periodically. If the school has alerts for receiving important information, sign up for them too to ensure you are on top of things.

 

 

 

Prepare Your Budget

We all know back-to-school will eventually begin, so why not budget financially and set aside some money specifically for back-to-school supplies. Once you estimate, based on previous years how much you have in your budget to spend this will help elevate the burden of school costs. Save up for P.E. uniforms or technology and science fees that are usually due at the beginning of the school year. 

Keep an eye out for retailers when they start putting out ads for back-to-school deals, so take advantage of these opportunities in advance so you don’t miss out. If you are an Amazon Prime member, you can get same-day delivery on most items, saving you time instead of going to the store and waiting in long checkout lines.

 

 

 

 

Get ahead of uniform shopping if your child has to wear them. It may take some time to get those school logos embroidered on shirts, so try not to wait too long because the turnaround time may not be in your favor, especially if you have one uniform shop specific to your child’s school.

 

 

Prepare Your Home

Declutter and throw away paperwork from the previous year. Set up a study area at home and make sure your area is free from distractions. Create bins and organizational items in your home to keep things organized. In the event of another epidemic shutdown, make sure you have extra supplies on hand and space to work, especially if everyone is home for virtual learning and telecommuting. Investing in supplies and materials like earbuds and Chromebooks and setting a family calendar may also help establish order and organization while at home.

 

Prepare Mentally

Not only do you have to get the above-mentioned things together, but preparing mentally will help with focus and clarity. It will help you to relax and feel a sense of readiness to tackle the obstacles that back to school brings. Begin easing your child back into a regular sleep schedule, that goes for parents as well. Discuss the expectations for the upcoming year and encourage healthy hygiene habits that may have been slacking over the summer. No more lounging in pajamas…lol! Having a family meeting to discuss these topics will not only bring your family closer but allow kids to discover their autonomy while away from home.

 

 

Embrace the Joy of Going Back to School

Your kids are now in a new grade. If a child is nervous or has the first-day jitters, remind them their friends are waiting for them as well as new opportunities. Get acquainted with the teachers and make your presence known that you care about your child and what he or she learns in school.

Kids are now learning new things and becoming more mature and independent. 

 

You are raising smart, intelligent kids and you should be proud!

Showing your kids that you are excited also makes them feel the same. If you are hesitant about it, so will they. You set the tone, so let them see you accepting the return in a positive light.

I know I have to get a better sleep pattern going, that’s always my issue….lol!

 

Quick Tips for a Successful School Year

• Set structure at home.
• Get acquainted with teachers.
• Help your child set goals for the school year.
• Encourage learning by meeting them where they are.
• Don't forget to celebrate all the accomplishments.

When you plan, prep and set goals you and your kids can have a successful school year. 

Comment below about the challenges you face with returning to school. Share this post with another mom, I’m sure they’ll appreciate it.