Sleep Schedule
"Start the school sleeping schedule before school starts. This makes the start of school less bumpy." — Anne D.
Ease into the school year by reinforcing a sleep schedule the week before classes start. In addition to easing the transition from summer slumber to early mornings, your kids will be better rested and therefore better prepared to take on the new year.
Don't Splurge
"Always use Crayola brand crayons; the others may be cheaper but they don't last nearly as long and break really easy." — Amanda B.
When it comes to art supplies, don't feel the need to overspend. It can be tempting to be swayed by all the cool designer packaging but tried-and-true last and last.
Be Prepared
"Do as much prep as you can the night before. Set out clothes, locate shoes, make lunches." — Rachel V.
Relieve yourself of unnecessary stress, and prepare as much as you can before classes start. Plan outfits, organize backpacks, make snacks/lunches—anything you can do to unburden yourself when it comes to heading back to school! Most moms will agree that having a leg up on the first day can make all the difference.
Kleenex, Kleenex, Kleenex!
"Forget Post-Its and wire-bound notebooks. Buy extra of everything else … especially boxed tissues." — MissLena H.
You can never have enough tissues. Teachers are pretty much always in need of it, so stock up while it's still on sale. Your child's teacher will be extremely grateful!
Size Up!
"If your kids' school(s) have uniforms, buy some in the next size when clothes go on sale." — Laura C.
For those shopping for children's school uniforms, take advantage of back-to-school sales and purchase some in the next size up. Considering how fast kids grow, by the holidays your child may very well be in need of a larger uniform, at which time it can be very difficult to find specific uniform pieces. Luckily, JCPenny tends to have great sales the week after classes begin.
Visit Your School
"Visit school before it starts, even if your child is returning to the same school!" — Judith R.
Starting a new school year can be stressful for kids. But it doesn't have to be! Relieve your child of his or her anxiety by taking them on a tour of the school building before class begins. Having even the slightest sense of familiarity with one's school can be helpful in terms of starting a new year, for both parents and kids!
MORE: Things Parents Should Known on the First Day of School
Pack Smart
"Don't stress about ensuring everything your children eat is homemade." — Andie H.
This year, make an effort to pack healthier lunches and snacks so your kids have the energy they need to perform their best. Store-bought foods can be just as nutritious if you opt for organic, low-sugar alternatives.
Create a Homework Station
"Rid homework of its dreary connotation by setting up a colorful work station for your child!" — Julie B.
Let your son or daughter have fun creating the space, and homework will no longer feel like such a chore. In addition to decorating, ensure that the station is stocked with all the necessary school supplies, so your child won't have to hunt for basic items.
Factor in Downtime
"Add some downtime after your kids get home from school. It'll give them a chance to regroup and blow off some steam." — Jenn M.
Stress is an unfortunate reality in terms of school and the infinite slew of assignments and projects that come with it. That's why it is so important to make sure that your children have at least 40 minutes of downtime per day, so that they are able to unburden themselves after a long day. Having downtime is also a great way to develop stress coping strategies early on.
Keep a Calendar
"Keep everyone organized by dedicating a calendar to all the family's activities." — Brie S.
Stay on top of homework and project deadlines, practice schedules, meeting times and everything else this school year throws your way by keeping a calendar in a central part of your home. Utilizing a calendar will help you stay organized throughout the school year, and you won't have to worry about missing a single event, important date or piano lesson—as long as you maintain it.
