Let’s talk routines! It’s time to get back into a routine as we prepare for the kids to return to school. With summer coming to an end for many children, getting back on a daily schedule can really shock the system. Today we will discuss ways to prepare you and your children for the first day of school.

1. Bedtime Routine
It’s been a few months of late nights for the kids. A few weeks before the start of school, begin a more rigid bedtime routine to help prepare the kids for early mornings. It really does help for them to be on a schedule.

2. Morning Routine
After a couple of months of sleeping in, getting back into a morning routine is mandatory. Set an alarm and wake up earlier a few weeks before the start school. This also helps ease the kids back into a normal schedule. Having a visual reminder of our morning routine helps remind everyone what is expected each day.

3. School Clothes
Before school starts go through the children’s clothes and purge what doesn’t fit or is worn out. Make a list of what needs to be replaced and watch for sales. Getting clothes at a discount price really does help stretch the budget. Avoid the crowds by shopping online or shopping early in the morning.

4. School Supplies
School supplies are a must. The good news is that you don’t have to stress over it. Most stores offer school supply lists for local schools. Buying school supplies in advance will save a lot of time and if you pay attention to store ads you can also save money. With two elementary aged school children, we tend to take the easy route and buy the premade school supply packs for their respective grades.

5. Well Checks/Vaccinations
Be sure that your children’s vaccinations are up to date before the start of school.

6. Plan Meals
Spend some time a few days before school begins planning meals. Breakfasts can be rushed in the morning, make meals ahead of time that are easy to heat and eat. Prepare lunches the night before to avoid the early morning time crunch.

7. Label Everything
Label school supplies. Label lunch bags. Label backpacks. Label water bottles. Label sports gear. Label jackets. Okay, you get the idea; label everything. Pack all school supplies in a bag or box for easy transport to school.

8. Designate an Area for Backpacks
A designated area for backpacks and other school gear saves time and effort in the morning when you may be rushed to get out the door. It also helps keep clutter at bay.

9. Lay out Clothes
Lay out clothes the night before to avoid a mad rush on the first day. To really make things easy, take some time to plan up to a week’s worth of clothes at a time.

10. First Day of School Photos
Prepare for a fuss free photo session on the first day of school by doing a little preparation. Print out any photo props ahead of time. Charge or replace the camera batteries. Clear the memory card.

We hope these tips help your preparations for the return to school stress free.