Start the School Year Right: From School Supplies to Routines

July 17, 2024


Even though January officially starts the new year, most parents would say it’s actually September: back-to-school season. If you're looking to establish new routines, explore our helpful tips designed to assist you in effectively preparing for a successful start to the school year.

Don’t Let Their Learning Take a Vacation

You’ve probably heard about how the summer gap can cause “brain drain” for students. A suitable way to help keep your child’s skills sharp is to continue to flex their learning muscles throughout the summer. Whether you pick up books from the library or devote 30 minutes to workbook time before you hit the park or pool, consistent summer work can pay dividends when they return to school.

You can also incorporate learning into play time. There are many STEAM or STEM activity kits and toys that can help make learning fun. STEAM is a curriculum-based educational philosophy focusing on real-world applications in science, technology, engineering, art, and math. STEAM kits are engaging, ready-to-use projects designed to expand young minds.

 


Create a Place for Everything

End manic mornings by creating a home for all the items you need every day, from a hook for backpacks to a folder for permission slips — and yes, a spot for your keys, too.

You can then develop a routine where every family member spends 10 minutes assembling the next day’s necessities for easy retrieval before heading out the door or logging on to virtual school. Everyone will feel calmer without a frantic last-minute search for homework or a library book.

This is also a good time to create a designated homework space for your student. Include a sturdy desk or table, a comfortable chair, and proper lighting. Ensure the space is free from distractions and has easy access to necessary supplies like pens, pencils, paper, and reference materials. Having a dedicated homework space will help your student stay focused and create a productive studying environment.

Post the Schedule for Everyone To See

Whether you choose a whiteboard or a big wall calendar, nothing beats a visual aid to show you a week at a glance. Consider indulging your inner artist by picking up a pack of nice pens and color-coding your schedule by activity, family member, or any other system that works for you. You’ll see who has music lessons, who needs to study for a math test, and who has a late virtual meeting.


Make School Prep Part of Your Summer Fun

For all the whining your kids may do about going back to school, deep down, they’re usually pretty excited. You can fuel that anticipation by involving them in back-to-school shopping. Not sure what’s on your school supplies list? Consult your school’s classroom supplies list to buy the exact school supplies you need.

Hint: Ordering back-to-school supplies online also makes finding things like “3 permanent markers, thin tip” and “dry-erase marker, red” much easier. You can also pick out the fun stuff, like colorful pocket folders and planners.

Consider planning a meet-and-greet with the teacher to make sure you have the right supplies.


Do a Dry Run

If your kids have spent the summer sleeping late and lazing around in their pajamas, the early alarm could be a harsh wake-up call. You can spend the week before school gradually moving bedtimes and wake-up times earlier.

It’s also smart to test the entire morning routine a couple of times to get your timing down — especially good if you’re juggling start times with a new job or school. When your test run is successful, you can reward the whole family with breakfast!

About the Author
Cathie Ericson is a freelance writer who specializes in small business, finance, and real estate.

All content provided herein is for educational purposes only. It is provided “as is,” and neither the author nor Office Depot warrants the accuracy of the information provided, nor do they assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or contrary interpretation of the subject matter herein.