Preparing for the First Day of School

Question: What things can I do to help ensure that my children have a great first day of school this year? -- For Preparation

Answer: Without some preparation, the first day of school can be a nerve-racking experience for children. They are facing new teachers, new classmates and possibly a new school. Here's our list of things that you can do to make the first day as close to stress-free as possible:

  • -Number One: Point out all the positives ahead of time, especially the fun of going back to school and the opportunity to learn new things.
  • -Have all the arrangements securely in place for how your children are getting to and coming home from school. Are they walking, biking, riding the bus or in a carpool? Know where the bus stop is and the exact times for pickup and departure from school.
  • -If they are walking, biking or driving, be sure to practice the route with them more than once. At the same time, review safety rules.
  • -Prepare your children to handle emergency situations. Ask questions like: What should you do if you miss a bus? What if you arrive home and no one is at the house? What do you do if you lose your house key?
  • -If there are unexpected problems or situations, make sure they know how to contact their parents or a reliable relative or neighbor.
  • -Visit the websites of your children's schools to be sure you have the latest information on the school schedule for opening day.
  • -Make sure your children have the supplies they need as recommended by the school. This list could be online.
  • -Make sure your children are in tip-top shape for the next school year through visits with doctors and dentists, and that their immunizations are current.
  • -Make sure that you and your children have selected their outfits for the first day of school.
  • -Decide on whether they will be bringing their lunch to school or buying it.
  • -Make sure they get a good night's sleep and a good breakfast before the first day of school.
  • -Lay out the clothes that will be worn, and have their filled backpacks by the door.