The 10 Days of Back To School

It’s that special time when the whole world (or at least so it seems) is preparing for the new school year. Teachers are preparing their classrooms and revising their programs; parents are excited about the new experiences their kids will have; and kids are excited about the new friends they’re going to make. With over 1 million google searches a month and thousands of tweets a day about “back to school”, it can be a very stressful time as well.

How do we make it magical and memorable without being stressed out or even worse putting additional pressure on our kids?

I know all too well about the impending stress and ways to manage it. As a parent of a kindergartener starting at a new school in just a few weeks, and the co-founder of Classtag; I’ve listened to many parents share how wonderful it is to balance this anticipation and stress.  Reflecting on these anecdotes and issues, my formula is simple: do one thing a day and all of the preparation comes together.  No stress… just the opportunity to experience that wonderful time of the year.

Day 10: Make The Most Of Those Last Days Of Summer

Plan fun activities to treat your child before school starts. As our children will be heading back to school shortly, our time to have fun in the sun with them is now! Let's cherish these last few weeks together without any homework and enjoy some good ol' fashioned time outdoors!

Day 9: Restore The Routine

Get your family back on their bedtime routine and schedule. We all know how bedtime can slip out of schedule during the summer and getting back into the habit takes time. Over these next few weeks, strive for that ideal bedtime and start developing the family routine again so that the transition back to school is seamless!

Day 8: Out With The Old 

A new school year means a bunch of new books, materials, and clothes. But what about all that existing stuff? It seems like there's just no room! Now is the time to donate those clothes that no longer fit, give away toys that are no longer needed, and store or donate books that are no longer relevant. By clearing space, you are ready to welcome everything needed for this new school year!

Day 7: Get Geared Up For Homework

Decide where your child’s study space or homework area will be and let them know. It is important that they participate in clearing out the clutter and making it their own. Allow children to add a decorating touch that they select or create.

Day 6: Shop ‘til You Drop

It is best to choose that special study space first and then buy the supplies to fill it! Shopping for school is perhaps one of the most exciting elements of beginning a new school year. Making a list serves as a guide through the store and also prevents purchasing excess items. After buying all your goodies, celebrate by filling your study space and homework area! You are one step closer to starting off the school year on the right foot :)

Day 5: Clarify Your Expectations

Experts advise that parents start talking about school only a week or so ahead of time. For kids entering a new school and in particular those going to Kindergarten, it can be an anxious experience. Talk about what they think the school is going to be like. Ask if they have any questions or concerns. There are a lot of wonderful picture books that you can use as well.

Day 4: Reunite and Reconnect

Get together with families from your child’s class. It’s important to rebuilding connections and friendships before school starts. If you already know some families in your class, plan a picnic at a park or plan to meet at a playground.

Day 3: Breathe In. Breathe Out.

You’re almost there! It is a good idea to take a walk by the school and play on the playground if it is open. This will put your child at ease; knowing exactly where they are going on Day 1.

Day 2: Revisit the Game Plan

Review the school day routine and prepare for the first day.  Talk about wake up time, who is going to drop them off and pick up, what is going to happen after school. Help your child lay out clothes for the first day of school.

Day 1: Make it Last

Take a picture together to save the memories! And don’t forget to share it with close friends and relatives. The first day of school is fun and special! Don’t forget, when sharing on social media, be careful not to post your child’s school bus number or even the name of their school.

What are you planning to do in the last 10 days before school? We would love to hear and learn from you! Post it in the comments!

Vlada Lotkina  is a co-founder and CEO of Classtag - a platform for classroom communities to get organized. Whether you want to get to know parents and teachers in your kids' class quickly, organize your first potluck dinner this year or keep track of class-related tasks, Classtag is unique to your class and is free for everyone to use. Vlada is also a mom of a Kindergartner and passionate about building strong communities and parent involvement. Be sure to sign up for Classtag Beta on classtag.com and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.