Getting Ready For Back to School

The summer fun is about to end and now its time to get back to the business of school. It's something the kids and parents alike dread. But the process can go much smoother if you plan ahead.

Getting Back on Schedule

It's nice to be able to stay up late and sleep in during the summer months but getting the kids back to on a school sleeping schedule can create sleepy little monsters in the morning. To help avoid morning grouchiness, ease them back into a schedule a couple of weeks prior to the start of school. Start sending them to a little earlier each night and waking them a little earlier in the morning until you reach your goal.

Buying School Clothes

Before you go out and buy school clothes, first access the clothing situation of your child. Go through their closets and drawers and set aside outgrown and worn out items. This will give you a better idea of what they need in terms of clothing and shoes. Make a list of items they are in need of and establish a budget for school clothes. Start watching for those back-to-school sales in July and August. Don't forget to scour the consignment shops and even the Internet for sites with good deals.

School Supplies

It's a good idea to check with the school to obtain a list of school supplies that your child will need for the school year before you buy unnecessary items. Don't forget to buy a new lunchbox if needed and backpack. Avoid buying backpacks with wheels, as most schools do not allow them.

Visit the School Ahead of Time

Many schools hold open houses ahead of time so parents can visit the school and meet the teachers. However, if your school doesn't, make an appointment to tour the school and meet the teachers anyway. While you are there check to see what necessary paperwork is needed such as immunization records, yearly physical exam, and emergency contact information. This is also a good opportunity to find out the bus and class schedules as well as what kinds of sports activities and clubs the school has to offer.

Getting Your Calendar Organized

With the start of school come additional activities and things to remember. Be sure and have a calendar ready to mark school schedules and activities. Be sure and post it in a visible area so everyone in the family knows what's going on.

Relieve Anxieties About the First Day of School

Many children experience some amount of anxiety about going to school especially if it is their first time or they are going to be attending a new school. Talk to your child about their fears and try and ease them. If this is their very first time attending a school, try and arrange a play date with children they will be going to school with. Also take them along when you visit the school so they can see their school, classroom and meet their new teacher.

Enjoy Those Last Moments

Be sure and enjoy those last summertime moments. Plan a back-to-school barbeque, a family night, or overnight camping trip to commemorate the occasion.

Find helpful and creative ideas for parents and grandparents while you shop our great selection of kids furniture (including our popular tables for kids) and classic toys. Visit http://www.TheMagicalRockingHorse.com today!

By Veronica Scott