20 Back to School Tips for Parents

The retail stores are already bombarding us with back to school sales. Hard to believe, but true! As you’re trying to get your head around summer ending, try out these back to school tips to get you mentally ready for the new school year.

Get more back to school ideas here and be ready to take on the new school year like a boss! This post contains affiliate links.

Twenty Back to School Tips for Parents

1. Take the time to do a classroom visit before school starts and meet with the teacher if possible.
2. Help your child find his or her locker and walk thru what a daily room change will be for your child. Add some fun by getting some of these locker decorations.
3. Get your children into a school sleep schedule at least 2 weeks before school.
4. Establish (or re-establish) a routine for bathing, breakfast, lunch etc.
5. Kids aren’t the only one who need to get back into a routine. Get yourself back into the school routine state of mind.
6. Find a designated place in the home for school items.
7. Realize your child being nervous about school is normal.
8. There are a number of back to school books you can read to young children in preparation for school.
9. Stay in a positive perspective about school, encouraging your child.
10. Remind children they will get to see their friends again, even if they are not in the same classroom.
11. Realize that changes in school districts can also create a big adjustment for kids.
12. Help your child find the right bus since route (pick up, drop off may change with a new year).
13. Let the teacher and school officials know if your child has any special needs (getting medication to the nurse, check –ins with the guidance counselor).
14. Notify the teacher if any major life changes such as divorce or a death in the family has occurred during the summer.
15. A few stomachaches or headaches may be normal the first week. But if this continues it may be best to check with a professional to find the source of the problem. It could be anxiety or a medical condition.
16. You can build bridges to communication with their child’s teacher through phone calls or email. Email is a quick way to give an update regarding any issue.
17. The sooner you start prepping for the school year the better.
18. If you drive your child to school, utilize that time as a positive, relationship building time with your child.
19. Develop a central calendar to keep track of all school related activities, late starts, early closings and any change in events or school events.
20. Start a fun yearly new school tradition; for example, a special breakfast for the first day, a yearly photo or bring a surprise to their new teacher. Keep it fun!

For more great back to school tips, visit our Ultimate Back to School Guide!