As the start of the new school year looms in the shadows, many students and parents have mixed feelings. Thoughts of COVID, homework, activities, and more are dancing through everyone’s minds. No matter how you are feeling, the impending start of school, is on the horizon. To help you focus, prepare, and start the school year of right, here are five things to do before school is back in session!

1. Sync your calendar with the school calendar

We are all extremely busy now-a-days. With parents on the go, you need to sync your calendar with the school calendar. This goes for your students as well!

By now, almost all schools have their key dates outlined on their school calendars. Things such as registration dates, sports tryouts, theater tryouts, academic club meets, parent-teacher conferences, etc. are all events that you and your student don’t want to miss. Make sure to put these dates on the calendar before school starts. That way, you will be one step ahead of being in the know!

2. Get school shopping done now

Whether you are shopping for clothes or school supplies, don’t wait until the last minute! Whether you are shopping online or in person. Spend a day getting together everything that you need. Remember,school supply lists can come a bit late sometimes, but if you plan ahead and get the basics stored away, you will a bit ahead of the game overall. And of course, make sure to add masks and hand sanitizer to the list this year as well.

3. Arrange transportation

A lot of parents drive their children to and from school; however, if you are not one of those, make sure to get your transportation plan set now. If you child takes the school bus, make sure that you know if the routes have changed or have stayed the same and where pick up and drop off are. If your child is riding with a friend, make sure that they know what time to be ready and where to be standing when the dismissal bell rings. Make sure that you get all of the phone numbers of anyone who will drive the carpool. Lastly, if your child is a walker, make sure that you walk the route with them before school starts. A lot of construction and changes have gone on throughout the summer. Make sure to spot detours before the first day.

4. Adjust your routine

During summer, children of all ages stay up later than they would during the school year. Start now easing back into that school routine. Some kids may have a difficult time getting back into the swing of things. Start now and by the time school starts, the summer routine will be a distant memory.

5. Get a check up

Getting a check up before going back to school will ensure that your child is 100% ready to go! Speaking to your doctor ahead of time about any health concerns will help you take the necessary precautions to make it through the school year. Weigh your family options of getting your child COVID vaccinated if they are old enough and you already haven’t done so. Make sure to stay informed and up-to-date on all keep an eye out for any and all health information throughout the year.