Read more Home Decorating Articles

It's Almost Time for School - Ready, Set, Go!

The month of August always brings with it the anticipation of the first day of school.  Here's some tips for getting ready for the big day:

Whether it's you or the kids, homeschool or public school, papers will seem to accumulate everywhere.  Control the paper monster from the very beginning.  Setting up a file folder system will help you separate the "wheat from the chaff."  A simple system will create a folder for vital records (birth certificate, shot records, address verification, and social security number), school information (phone numbers, rules, teacher's contact information, grading information, syllabi, etc.), papers that must be returned to school, and special papers which will be kept.  All other papers should be thrown away on a regular basis.  To help eliminate paper clutter, you may want to take pictures of special papers for the scrapbook album.  Going through backpacks once a week to throw out papers is a big help to school organization.

In the weeks leading up to the first day of school, check children's shot records to make sure that vaccinations are up to date, and schedule appointments for physicals.  Make sure you send any new medical information to the school nurse on the first day of school.

Before you start shopping, spend some time decluttering children's bedrooms.  Look for pens, paper, crayons, scissors, glue, and other school supplies which are still in good condition.  Also, go through your children's clothing and get rid of anything which is not in good condition or no longer fits.  Then make a list of the clothing and school supplies you will need.  Clean off homework areas and make them happy and inviting places.  If you have the room, create a special reading area with a comfy beanbag and a mood lamp.

Now is a great time for buying your back-to-school wardrobe.  In areas of the country which will be warm for a few more months, you can get fantastic deals at end-of-summer sales.  Many stores will be putting school supplies on sale, too.  Shop early and stock up on items such as glue, paper, and pencils while they are on sale. 

Begin now to establish chore routines with children to help them remain organized once school starts.  Simple chores such as making their beds, picking up toys, and brushing teeth can be noted on a reward chart with special stickers.  Help children to lay out their clothing and pack their backpacks the night before, so that mornings are less frantic.  With a little advance planning, your new school year will be off to a great start!

Help with decluttering and organization

Discount School supplies