12 simple tips for making back-to-school season a breeze

by Robert Paul

Remember when, as a kid, you hated going back to school? Now that you’re a parent you know that moms and dads, too, aren’t without dread. The big challenge? Putting a positive spin on the change from the endlessly carefree hours spent outdoors to the reality of classrooms, homework and school rules.

If back-to-school season has you and your children stressed, here are 12 simple things you can do to help make the transition from summer vacation into a new school year a breeze.

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Decluttering is a great way to help mentally prep your child for school – an opportunity to wrap up positive summer memories by creating a “time capsule” filled with cherished mementoes – from summer craft projects to “found” objects to vacation souvenirs – and create an inviting, organized space where kids will be excited to do their homework.

Like to know more? 5 good reasons to declutter your home after summer vacation

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What better way to set the mood than with a fun back-to-school party. Pick a theme, invite your kids’ friends over and have plenty of food, games and fun on hand. You could even give each child a loot bag at the end with a few school-themed items, like at a birthday party!

Like to know more? 4 fun themes for a back-to-school party

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Almost no child loves back-to-school shopping, but if you make it more fun they’ll enjoy it. How? Transform shopping into a scavenger hunt with a list of things for children to find. The first to complete his or her list gets to pick a treat everyone will enjoy – like some ice cream.

Like to know more? 3 ideas to get your kids stoked for the new school year

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Just as with festive occasions, decorations can set the mood for your kids to feel positive about school. Help them decorate their rooms with school-themed ideas, such as a collage of best school moments including a school play snapshot, a drawing of their favourite teacher, an A+ test or last year's class picture. Get creative!

Like to know more? 5 clever ways for making back-to-school season easier for kids

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In summer kids tend to go to bed later. To avoid the fatigue of a sudden change in habits, ease your kids back into their school wake-up times by sending them to bed 10 minutes earlier (gradually pushing back the time) in the weeks before school, until they’re “on schedule” again.

Like to know more? How to ease your kids from summer into fall

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A new school can be exciting and scary, especially if you’ve just moved. To help soothe your child’s anxieties and build confidence, call the new school to arrange a tour so you and your child can meet the principal, teachers and see where their classrooms are before the big day.

Like to know more? 3 ways to prepare your child for the first day at a new school

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Although sandwiches are a lunchtime staple, they can get boring very fast. What’s more, a hungry child who hates their lunch isn’t a happy one. The solution? Fun, healthy and kid-friendly lunch ideas so good your children won’t be swapping with pals for “something better.”

Like to know more? 5 simple kid-friendly school lunch ideas

The first few weeks back are always chaotic. To set up your child for success and reduce their stress, place a clearly labelled red "to-do" homework folder and a green "all done" one in their knapsacks; add a colourful pencil case; plus mark the compartments of their knapsack for “lunch,” “shoes” and the like.

Like to know more? 3 hints to keep your child organized over the school year

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An organized, inviting homework station will encourage kids to stay on top of their assignments without nagging. Simply find a quiet spot, add a desk, and make sure it’s cool and comfy. When it’s stocked it with all the right supplies, you’ll have trouble keeping the kids away!

Like to know more? 5 ways to create the perfect homework station

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When it comes to kids, little things can throw them off – like not having the right supplies to start an activity. From USB drives to pencils to index cards, double-check that you have everything on the school supply list. Stash a few extras at home for when they need re-stocking.

Like to know more? 6 items not on the school list that every student needs

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Part of feeling good about starting a school year is getting new clothes, but with more than one kid it can become costly. Instead of cheap clothes your kids won’t wear and that’ll wear out fast, with some creative shopping you can get them duds they’ll adore at a fraction of the price.

Like to know more? 6 clever tricks for buying kid's clothes on a budget

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Snacks are supposed to be fun and flavourful, right? Frankly, that’s why kids hate celery. To ensure your kids have the energy they need to go until suppertime (minus all the unnecessary sugar) why not load them up with one of these tasty treats they’ll love to eat.

Like to know more? 4 fun and healthy homemade snacks your kids will love