So for this week’s Tuesday Tips, we’ve got you covered with a back-to-school how-to that will keep your stress levels down as your kids transition back into the school year.
1.) First, don’t forget about immunizations and checkups. If your child needs a checkup, try scheduling it just before school starts. It’s an easy time of the year to remember, especially since you’re focusing a lot on your child already. Make sure that you’re getting them age appropriate immunizations, as well. If your kid will participate in sports, the school may require a sports physical.
2.) Get the school supplies early. Your child’s school will probably mail out a school supply list or have one available on their website. Many stores will have huge sales on supplies in the weeks leading up to the start of school, so keep an eye out for special deals and coupons. Some states even provide tax holidays on school supplies during August so that you can save even more money on the essentials.
2.1.) Don’t forget that trendy and flashy tend to be expensive. If you’re trying to ease the burden on the wallet, stick to standard school gear and consider decorating those folders, backpacks and binders with your kids. If it’s clothes you’re after, check clearance racks and make a trip to the consignment store.
3.) Plan transportation. Will your child walk, bike, bus or get a ride to school? Will you need to figure out a bus schedule or arrange carpools?
3.1.) If it’s your child’s first time going to school or if you’ve moved to a new district, you might want to walk your child to the bus stop or somehow provide a little extra help, just to give them a bump of confidence.
3.2.) If you do a lot of commuting or driving around town, now is the time to keep your eyes out for kids on the roads. The onset of school means you’ll be driving to work right around the time that kids hit the streets for school.
4.) Plan meals. If your child won’t or can’t eat breakfast before school (check out on-the-go breakfast ideas), make sure they’ll have time to eat something after arriving to school or shortly after school begins. They might not feel like they need it, but those morning calories will help your kid focus and retain information in class. You’ll also want to consider lunches. Will you pack a lunch for them or will they buy lunch? Maybe your child’s school even offers free or reduced-price lunches. Or maybe your child is old enough to start making lunches for themselves. Plan this out and talk with your kid about it before the first day of school.
5.) Be supportive. The first few days back at school can be difficult for various reasons; stress levels are up, classes are hard, your kids are making new friends and dealing with different challenges. Check in with them over dinner or before bed to see how their days are going. You’ll probably get “fine” as an answer, but being present for your children is important. 
Most of all, make this a fun time for your kids. Going back to school is exciting and an important part of the year; be a part of it and make it fun and productive for the whole family.
We want to hear your tips, too. How do you make the transition to going back to school easier for you, the kids and the rest of the family? Share your advice in the comments, tweet us @ConsumerBell with the hashtag #backtoschool or email us at info@consumerbell.com
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