Prep for Back-to-School: 5 Things to Do Now

The best way to gently ease into the school routine is by being prepared and starting early. This post touches on some of the ways that you can start getting ready today to make this time of year less hectic. Do you have anything to add to the 5 things to do now to prep for back-to-school?

5 Things to Do Now to Prep for Back-to-School

Get Control of Bedtime Again. This doesn’t apply to the parents who have kept their kids on the same routine through the summer months but if you’re anything like me your little ones probably weaselled their way into a later bedtime. I opted to enjoy a family movie or a late night playing their favourite video games more times than I can count but now it is time to buckle in our seat belts and get back to our regularly scheduled sleep.

Depending on how much time you now have to trim off of your current bedtime I would start doing it in 15-minute increments. That way you are gently getting back into the swing of things and your kids will go back to school well rested. If you need some more information on how to get a good bedtime routine, how many hours your LO actually needs to sleep and a handy bedtime chart you can read this post.

You can also check out our post for a printable kids bedtime routine checklist here.

Start Packing Lunches Now. This may seem crazy but I would 100% start serving the kids what you plan on serving them when school starts. Remember to also pack it in the containers you plan on using. Kids palates change and also just because a container works for you does not mean your little one will be able to open it OR close it back up. One year we had our daughter spill her whole Thermos of soup all over her clothes and another time I got a backpack home that was completely covered with vanilla yogurt because my daughter could not close the container back up. This will also give you an idea of what snacks your child will eat so you don’t end up with uneaten food.

Book Your Doctor & Dentist Visits. Getting in the habit of taking your children to the family doctor, dentist and eye doctor before the school year begins will make your life oodles easier. Not only will you think of it for years to come every time the back-to-school thoughts happen but you will also be able to tackle any health issues prior to the school year beginning. Also, make sure your children are up to date for vaccinations or you have all your paperwork in order for the school board if you are opting out. 

Label Everything. You are either team labels or not. But I can tell you that I not only label all of our school supplies but I also label all of my expensive tech, glasses, shoes, clothes, and anything else I don’t want to be lost. The money you spend on labels is pennies compared to how much your belongings cost. Another tip is to get a neutral design and put your family name on the labels so everyone can use them in the house. I have tried both Oliver’s Labels, Mabel’s Labels (use code sixtimemommy for 10% off until September 4th), Avery Write-On labels, and Mabel’s Labels that you can write on yourself. I think at this point they all do the same job and it is a preference from you regarding packaging and design. 

Make a Morning Playlist. This is something I am going to be working on this week so I can implement it this year. Since a few of my kids don’t really understand the concept of time and me screaming ‘we gotta leave in 5 minutes’ over and over means absolutely nothing to them I thought that maybe music would help.

Get your children to suggest some songs and make a morning playlist on your favourite streaming service. I have Amazon Music but you can use Spotify or Apple Music I think as well. If your playlist ends up being 25 minutes long start playing it 25 minutes before you have to be out the door so that the kids can use the music as an alternative to time.

Let’s say halfway through the playlist you expect the kids to be done breakfast. When Justing Bieber’s Sorry comes on the speakers your kids will in time realize that means it is time to start brushing their teeth and hair and getting ready to get out the door. 

Is there anything you are doing now to prepare for back-to-school?

Aneta Alaei

Aneta is a Toronto-based mom of four that loves a good meal, great company, and learning something new. In her free time, you can find her trying to keep yet another plant alive.

Find me on: Web | Twitter/X | Instagram | Facebook