The end of summer means it’s time to start preparing for the school year. Make things easier for yourself by starting now and doing a bit each week!
Here's a checklist to help you stay on track and organized for your first-day-of-school countdown. (We also made a printable version you can download at the end of this post).
Cue the confetti if you're like these moms! 🎉
2 MONTHS BEFORE
Schedule doctor visits and physicals as needed
Send or bring required forms to the doctor, and renew prescriptions for medications
Sign up your kids for fall sports and after-school activities
6 WEEKS BEFORE
Sort through fall clothing: donate/hand down what no longer fits
Sit down with your planner and write in the entire school calendar. Include sports and other after-school activities
1 MONTH BEFORE
Purchase basic wardrobe necessities, backpacks, lunchboxes, and water bottles for each child
Purchase required school supplies for each classroom
Check progress on summer reading and math packets
3 WEEKS BEFORE
Create an “organization station” in a convenient location by the door. get one basket or crate for each child to be used for their belongings - books, hat, gloves, sports equipment. Include hooks for backpacks and coats if possible
2 WEEKS BEFORE
Start getting your kids back on their school year bedtime routine
Get your babysitter schedule set up in advance so you have time in your schedule to workout, run errands, have a date night or girls’ night out
1 WEEK BEFORE
Schedule haircuts as needed
Make a “favorite foods” list for each of your children. Make sure to note what they like best for lunch, snacks, and dinner so that you’ll remember those foods at the grocery store.
Stock up on non-perishable basics like juice/milk boxes, napkins, sandwich bags, and snacks
Purchase homework supplies like pencils, markers, crayons, and paper
3 DAYS BEFORE
Plan meals for the first week of school
Grocery shopping: Make a list. Include items for your meal plan and from the favorite food list.
Make sure that your camera is fully charged and ready for first day photos
THE NIGHT BEFORE
Prepare lunches and snacks
Pack Supplies in backpacks
Lay out clothes
Set alarm clocks
FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL
Enjoy it! (and don’t forget the tissues, or the camera!)
