Back-to-school preparation 2023

If you are looking to skip the back-to-school butterflies, here’s how you and your child can get ready for the day and make the transition easier:

The week before

Set a reasonable bedtime:
Back-to-school shopping:
  • Find out what you child may need for the upcoming year. Teachers may also ask for additional classroom supplies like tissues, baby wipes, sanitizing wipes, hand sanitizer and soap. 
Meet the teacher:
  • Bring your child to meet his/her teacher and see the classroom ahead of class. Some districts have supply drop off dates when students can see the classroom. School districts and teachers may be offering virtual meet-and-greets for those that can't make it into the school. 

The day before

Check supplies:
  • Fill backpacks ahead of time with important papers, school information and make sure your children have everything they need on their supply list. Don't forget any health documents needed for the nurse!
Pack lunch:
Click here to learn more about how to pack your child a heart-healthy school lunch, and watch the video below for the importance of a healthy meal:

The day of

Eat a healthy breakfast:
  • Send your children off to school with a healthy breakfast that will keep them full and focused until lunchtime. Understand the arrival and dismissal procedure.
  • Make sure that your child knows their bus number or who is picking them up at the end of the school day.
  • If taking the bus or mass transit, make sure your child knows the rules.

After school

Homework space:
  • Have a designed space for your child to do their homework. Make sure it is a quiet place where they are not easily distracted.
Paperwork:
  • Parents/guardians should fill out emergency contact information and look over any other important documents the school sends home.
  • Learn what steps to take if you, your child or anyone you came into contact with becomes sick.
Communication with teacher:
  • Email and have regular phone conversations with teachers. If possible attend back-to-school nights and parent-teacher conferences. These meetings may be virtual, making it easier for some working parents to attend while at work.
Look out for signs of bullying or stress:
For more back-to-school resources and stories across News 12 Networks click in the links below: