pexels freestockpro 2781814We know, we know. Summer just started! But we like to start getting organized for back to school with plenty of time to avoid the rush in September.

1. Stock Up on Supplies

  • Inventory Existing Supplies: Go through last year’s supplies to see what can be reused. Check for any items that need replacing or replenishing.
  • Make a List: Create a list of required school supplies based on teachers’ lists or school requirements. Include basics like notebooks, pencils, and erasers, as well as any specialty items needed.
  • Shop Together: Involve your kids in shopping for supplies. This helps them feel invested and can be a fun activity. Look for sales and discounts to save money.

Organize Their Space

  • Clear and Clean: Help your child clear out their study area, removing anything they no longer need. Clean the space thoroughly.
  • Set Up and Decorate: Set up their study area with necessary supplies and make it a space they enjoy being in. Adding personal touches like decorations or a fun desk organizer can make it inviting.
  • Create a System: Use organizers, bins, or shelves to keep everything in place. Consider labeling containers to help your child easily find what they need.

3. Establish Routines

  • Daily Schedule: Develop a daily routine that includes time for homework, extracurricular activities, and downtime. This helps kids manage their time better and reduces stress.
  • Morning and Bedtime Routines: Re-establish school-year routines by setting consistent wake-up and bedtime hours. Gradually adjust their sleep schedule a week or so before school starts to ease the transition.

4. Prepare Academically

  • Review Previous Material: If appropriate, review key concepts from the previous school year to refresh their memory. This can help build confidence.
  • Set Goals Together: Discuss academic goals and interests with your child. Encourage them to think about what they want to achieve and how they can reach those goals.
  • Plan for Projects and Deadlines: Help your child use a planner or calendar to keep track of important dates, assignments, and school events. Regular check-ins can help them stay on top of their responsibilities.

5. Enhance Organizational Skills 

  • Create a Homework Station: Set up a designated area for homework and school projects. Equip it with all the necessary supplies and ensure it’s free from distractions.
  • Establish a Filing System: Create a filing system for important school documents, such as permission slips, report cards, and school announcements. Use folders or a filing cabinet to keep these documents organized and easily accessible.
  • Use Visual Aids: Implement visual aids like whiteboards, corkboards, or charts to help your child keep track of assignments, due dates, and extracurricular activities. A visual calendar in a common area can also help the whole family stay organized.
  • Set Up a System for Papers: Develop a system for handling school papers and projects. Create an “inbox” for incoming papers and a “work in progress” section for ongoing assignments. Regularly review and sort these papers to keep clutter under control.
  • Teach Time Management: Help your child learn time management skills by setting timers for study sessions and breaks. Encourage them to use a planner or digital calendar to track their responsibilities and manage their time effectively.

By taking these steps, you can help your child transition smoothly into the new school year and set them up for success both academically and emotionally.