Parenting Tips: Back to School Tips

It's hard to believe but the big yellow bus will be heading back to your house before you know it. So with a couple of weeks left before the school bell rings, now is the time to get prepared and get organized.

Here are seven tips to help you out for this week's Parenting Tips.

Make a return to the classroom smooth this year by getting your child's back to school paperwork in order ahead of time. Gather up your immunization records to old report cards now so there won't be a last minute rush.

Second, remember sports physicals are required every year for your child to go out for the team. Many clinics and doctors' offices offer sports physicals for a special reduced price before school begins. Get one while they're cheap.

Third, plan and shop early for your children's back to school wardrobes. Before you hit the store, take an afternoon and assess each child's clothing needs. Clean and organize clothing storage with your child before buying any new clothes. That will help you get organized and develop a list of your child's clothing needs.

Be prepared with classroom supply lists before shopping for school supplies, and shop early! Back-to-school sales tend to be better the earlier they begin.

While you're shopping for school supplies, get a schedule board to help you get organized. Try designating a color for each family member's activities on the calendar to keep everything straight.

Tips number six, ease the family into a school year schedule. During the last two weeks of summer, re-introduce a school year bedtime. Begin waking late sleepers earlier and earlier, closer to the hour they'll need to rise when school begins.

When school begins, plan ahead to make mornings a breeze. Lay out children's clothing the night before. Also designate a special spot for book bags and coats so there will be no lost items at the last minute. Also know when your child's bus will be departing and arriving so there isn't a last minute rush.

These tips should make for a highly productive and successful school year. Remember many times, being organized means you'll get to your destinations right on time.