Remember when School’s Out for Summer was running through your mind just a few short months ago?
Well, just like that, we are in the midst of preparing for a new school year. Here are some ways to get your ducks in a row before you send your ducklings out of the nest.
Attend Meet the Teacher
This event allows children to become familiar with their classroom location, their teacher, and their assigned desk. At my daughter’s elementary school, students are allowed to stock their own locker during Meet The Teacher – which is an added perk. My daughter likes to decorate her locker and place all her organizational baskets inside, so that on the first day she’s ready to go.
Get to bed on time
Work to get your kids back in a routine in the weeks leading up to the first day of school. Easier said than done – I know. This WebMD - Child Sleep Schedule lets parents know exactly how much sleep each of their children should be getting per night. Sleep is crucial to helping kids reach their full potential.
Purchase a few new clothing items
Selecting a special First-Day-of-School outfit is also exciting for kids. A new outfit lends to the excitement of a new school year. In Texas, many parents take advantage of the annual Tax-Free Weekend.
Add special touches
While it may seem trivial, I make a point to take my daughter’s new backpack and lunch tote to get monogrammed. It adds a little touch of personalization and allows kids to showcase a bit of their own style.
Grocery shop ahead of time
For parents/caregivers, grocery shopping is necessary prior to the first day/week. Be sure to stock the pantry with hearty breakfast options and lunch items. Packing a lunch on the first day ensures that your child will get what they want to eat on a nerve-wracking day.
Check in
Once the school year is underway, make sure to check the school’s website often for vital information. It’s a great source when planning around important dates such as holidays and state testing, planning breakfast and lunch menus, and coordinating sports schedules.
Avery has worked as an assistant professor in the Communication and Media Studies Department at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor since 2005. She is the Program Coordinator for the PR degree and oversees student internships. She earned her Accreditation in PR (APR) in 2015. She teaches classes in journalism, editing, public relations and social media. Avery also serves as a Subject-Matter-Expert in communication for UMHB’s myWay program. She earned an MA degree in Mass Communication at Texas State University and a BS degree in Journalism/Speech Communication from Texas A&M University. Avery and her husband Chad have two beautiful girls, Anya and Elise. When she is not teaching or chauffeuring kiddos to and from activities, she enjoys traveling.