THE 10 BEST
Back-to-School Tips Ever!
G
oing from summer fun, vacations and late nights to homework, packed lunches and strict bedtimes can be a tough transition for both parents and kids. With these parent-approved back-to-school tips and tricks, though, heading back to school is sure to run smoothly this year!
1. Start
Preparing Early
The sooner you start, the easier it will be. Make a list of everything you need to do before school begins. The list can include everything from meal prepping and school supply shopping to hair cut appointments and sports physicals. The list will help you stay on track and, hopefully, keep you from forgetting something and having to make a last-minute trip to pick it up.
2. Set
Up a Command Center
3. Line
Out the Routine
A command center will help you stay organized all year round. This designated area will be where all school items go. Large cubbies work great to keep each child’s backpacks, lunch boxes, jackets and shoes together. This is also the ideal place to post your weekly calendar, so the entire family knows what is going on each day of the week. It would also be ideal to have a charging station for the kids’ school iPads and laptops, so they are ready to go for the next day.
Make a to-do list for each child that spells out the routine and responsibilities for the day. The list can include every task kids must complete before school, after school and before bedtime. Include tasks such as brushing teeth and combing hair, as well as after-school chores or putting away book bags. Spelling out their responsibilities for them will help kids get into their new routine and help you avoid asking them over and over whether they’ve brushed their teeth.
4. Create a Dedicated Homework Space
Sometimes getting your kids to do their homework can become its own chore, but a designated homework space can help with that. Stock pencils, crayons, glue, tape and all the necessary supplies for homework at a desk or wherever they will be doing homework each day. Every day when it’s time for homework, the kids will be set up for success and won’t be wandering the house asking you where they put their scissors!
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kcparent.com august 2021
