Back-to-school preparation is often overly hectic. Most parents feel like they are trying to run a marathon in the back to school isle. Armed only with a lengthy list printed in the smallest font possible, most parents grab a basket and prepare to blow the monthly budget every August. This is amplified when there are multiple children in the home. This time of year does not have to bring a large amount of stress. There are plenty of ways to ease into the school year organization, instead of rushing in full-speed.
Be on the Lookout
If you have kids, school necessities should always be in the back of your mind. Every time you go to the grocery store, wander down the school supply aisle. Pens, pencils, and other necessities can go on sale at odd times of the year. The clearance section is also your friend.
Use it Again
As soon as the school year ends, clean out backpacks and figure out what you have to work with for the following year. Binders may be able to be re-used, for example. Spiral notebooks that only house a few pages of notes can also be repurposed.
Find Missing Items
Organize the kids for a house-wide scavenger hunt. Gather up crayons, pencils, and glue sticks from the crevices of your home. See what can be used to fill the list requirements.
Freshen it Up
When kids empty their backpacks in the spring, you can easily get them ready for the next year right away. Run bags and pencil pouches through the washing machine to give them a fresh look. You may not have to buy new ones, after all.
Boost the Budget
Finances take a big hit when school starts up. Put a little money aside all year to avoid a shock to the bank account.
Wait a Bit
Some items are not needed right away. If you don't need to buy everything for the first day, wait for the sales. Stores often get rid of excess school items a few weeks into the school year.
Clean out the Drawers
Deep clean drawers and closets over the summer. You may find clothes hidden away that are perfectly good for the school year. Hit the late summer closeout sales for things like short sleeve shirts. These can be used all year long.
Stock up
Things like earbuds, hats, and gloves often "disappear." Grab several pairs of inexpensive earbuds and other extra items to stay ahead of the game.
Restock the Medicine Cabinet
The first cold of the season often finds you unprepared. Fill the cabinet with Kleenex and your regular over-the-counter medicines.
Freezer Fun
School mornings are rough. Start baking easy to go breakfast items, like waffles and muffins, ahead of time. Freeze until needed.
Budget Snacks
Kids seem to need snacks constantly during the school year. Gather favorite trail mix items and have a family prep day. Mix and put into portion size baggies.
Hygiene Items
This is especially important if you have teenagers. Do an inventory check of deodorant, toothpaste, mouthwash, face wash, and similar toiletries.
The Detail
A missing belt or sock can keep you from leaving the house on time. Purchase extras of items that are used daily. Create a space for kids to set them out the night before, as well.
Lists from Kids
Your kids may have a little wish list of their own. Get each one to make a list and try to comply with a few requests.
Organize the kids
The first week back to school can be daunting. The housework is often the first thing to go. Have the kids do their chores on a school day schedule the last week or two of summer.
Follow these tips, and you are likely to be lounging on your couch with a cup of coffee when the school rush hits. Instead of frantically racing to purchase everything on a list, your items are ready and waiting by the front door. Now you have time for one last summer barbeque!
