Back to School Tips for Parents

Going back to school is a process that proves just as stressful for parents as it does for students. All the changes can wreak havoc on the unprepared family, but with a little bit of planning, going back to school can be a breeze.

Check out our top back to school tips for parents. Have fun and don't stress!

Back to School Tips for Parents

1. Reset Your Sleep Schedule

At least one week before school starts back up, start setting earlier bedtimes and getting up earlier. This will lead to far fewer cases of the "grumpies" when the first day of school rolls around. To make this easier, try the following tips, courtesy of the University of Tennessee Medical Center:

• Make sure your child's room is calm, quiet, and comfortable
• Get daily exercise to expend excess energy
• Don't consume caffeine late in the day
• Turn off screens at least an hour before bed
• Keep a consistent sleep schedule

2. Check in With the Doctor and Get Vaccinated

It's always a good idea to get a check-up before school begins, and make sure you're aware of the schools policy regarding vaccinations. With so many kids in one place, there's bound to be a lot of germs flying around, so make sure your child is in tip-top shape.

3. Review School Materials

With the beginning of the school year comes a flood of paperwork and materials to review. Read through everything to ensure that you aren't missing out on any vital changes. In these papers, you can often find information about pick-up procedures, school lunch and allergy policies, dress codes, and more.

4. Shop for School Supplies Together

No doubt you'll need to restock on school supplies for the upcoming year. But before you grab that list and head to the store yourself, consider bringing your child with you.

Many middle and high school students in particular prefer to pick out their own school supplies. This turbulent time of life is a lot to handle and a little personalization can help your child cope with it much better.

5. Cool it on the Screens

Technology can be beneficial in education. But it can also prove quite distracting, and many schools no longer allow cellphones in the classroom. To help change your child's habits, start reducing the amount of screen time at home. Even simple breaks, like during dinnertime, can help minimize their urge to constantly check their smartphone.

6. Establish a Study Time

Homework needs to be a number one priority during the school year. To reach that goal, we recommend establishing a set study time. After dinner works well for many families with two parents working outside of the home, while other families prefer getting homework done right after school.

Also consider creating a study station within your home. Leave distractions such as electronics out of this area and use them only for schoolwork and studying.

7. Pin Down Your Route to School

Before the school year starts, make sure the kids know how they will be transported to and from school. If they're taking the bus, set the time that they should be at the bus stop each morning. If you're driving them, double check your route to school and make sure there are no construction projects that will cause delays.

8. Check Out the Extracurricular Calendar… And Start Planning

One of the most important factors to consider is the possibility of extracurricular activities. If your children plan to participate in drama, sports, school clubs, etc., check the calendar well in advance. You'll want to factor these dates and times into your own schedule so that you can take care of transportation and attend important events.  

Back to school season can be hectic, but it doesn't have to be! Take advantage of these back to school tips and you'll be back in the swing of things before you know it.

Love these tips? Share them with your friends on Facebook and Twitter to help them plan for the upcoming school year!  

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