As quickly as summer started, it is already time to think about summer’s end. Many schools start back even before Labor Day weekend, the unofficial end of summer. If you are sending your children back to school, plan to simplify back to school shopping by getting organized and starting early. Take advantage of a rainy summer day to get your thoughts in gear. If a school uniform is not required for your child, be sure to make a check of last year’s clothing to see what still fits and what your child has outgrown. Plan ahead for the colder months and buy clothing slightly big in the case of a fall growth spurt.
School supplies are often required at the beginning of the year. While teachers may send home specific supply lists for each grade, getting essentials early is a great way to simplify back to school shopping. Pens, pencils, notebooks and erasers are almost sure to be on every child’s supply list, so stock up on plenty of these items. Take advantage of pre-season sales as well. Many supply stores offer great deals before the rush. Plan appropriately according to each child’s grade level. For younger elementary grade, one notebook will usually suffice, but once middle school and high school begin, plan for one notebook per subject. When school is back in session and supply lists are sent home, you can check off the items you already purchased and make a quick trip for specialty requests, like tissue for the classroom, packages of glue sticks, etc.
Now that clothing and supplies have been taken care of, it’s time to let your child choose a new backpack. New backpacks are a great way to help transition back into the school year. While you’ve spent time trying to simplify back to school shopping, your child has been looking forward to adding a personal touch to school items. Allowing some sort of personalization, like monogrammed initials or an embroidered sports team logo can be a feel-good way for your son or daughter to show self-expression.
While your child’s full name should be on supplies like notebooks and folders, it is not recommended to have first or full names embroidered on book bags. This safety precaution is to deter potential predators from instilling a false sense of familiarity with your child. Get into gear, get safe and get organized when you simplify your back to school shopping lists.
