The ABCs of Back-to-School Prep

As much as we may try, it's impossible to stop the lazy, hazy days of summer from slipping through our fingers and the final weeks of school break will be here before you can say permission slip. Don't be caught in the whirlwind of last-minute preparations and head-pounding panic. Taking note of these top areas of back-to-school stress can make early mornings a little more manageable and a lot less of a struggle when they do arrive. A Is for AM Expectations Putting in a little evening time to prepare for school mornings is worth the effort. Simple tasks that can be completed the night before can help decrease morning chaos, as can getting accustomed to early alarm clocks or gentle morning wakeups. Set aside clothes the night before, especially for younger children. Let them choose their own outfits (with suggestions and support) to help develop independence and for fewer morning battles. Bathing or showering in the evenings can also be a timesaver. Purchase or prepare easy breakfast options like cereal, frozen waffles, or scrambled egg cups that can be easily reheated and served with fruit. Reserve time in the mornings for a healthy breakfast that will fuel the learning that lies ahead or take advantage of your school's breakfast options, if possible. While it can be tempting to save homework for the morning, the time might not be available for proper concentration or effort. Making the school bus on time or piling into the car for parent drop-off will be much easier with less to do in a time crunch. Some children struggle with mornings more than others. Setting your children up for success early on by communicating expectations can be the key to fewer power struggles and smoother transitions. B Is for Bedtime Routine Summer often means late nights of fun and lax bedtime schedules. Although children will resist, start to gradually get back into a school time sleep schedule at least two weeks before school starts. Establishing a predictable weeknight bedtime routine can help ease children back into a sleep schedule. Bedtime steps can include bathing, teeth brushing, stories, music, and snuggles for the young ones that follow a set timeline they can learn to expect, and that will encourage relaxation at the end of a busy day. C Is for Classroom Supplies & Clothes Teachers often share classroom supply lists over the summer. While items can vary by school district and with the student's age, the lists can seem long and sometimes cost is a worry or consideration. Starting the purchases early and buying items over time can help to ease the financial burden. Although many stores often hold back-to-school sales, supplies might be available elsewhere at lower prices, like discount or dollar stores. Thrift stores can also be a great place to find three-ring binders, gently used backpacks, or lunch boxes and water bottles at affordable prices, and don't forget to check returned supplies from the last school year to see if any were unused and can be repurposed or passed on to the next child. It's also a good idea to take inventory of your children's clothing a few weeks before school starts. Will they need new sneakers, or have they outgrown their pants? Although the school year often starts out with students wearing shorts and T-shirts, it can cool down quickly into autumn temperatures and hoodie season. D Is for Drained Parents Although summers are full of sunshine, swimming, and s'mores, many parents can admit that they are exhausted and slightly happy when school starts back up for another year. While we all love spending time with our kids, there's no shame in breathing a sigh of relief when they climb the steps back onto that big yellow bus.