Back-to-school checklist

Before you know it, the school bells will be ringing. Avoid a last-minute scramble with this step-by-step guide to getting everything done. Print out this list to help you get organized!

Three weeks before: 

• Inventory your child’s clothing. Make a record of what he needs.
• Familiarize yourself with the school’s Web site. Many teachers post a school-supply list, welcome note or other information.
• Gather ads for back-to-school sales. Decide which stores you’ll hit.
• Make an emergency plan. Call your emergency contacts (such as friends and relatives) to confirm that they’ll help if need be.

 Two weeks before:

• Have your middle schooler practice with a combination lock. Also, practice changing classes.
• Be sure your child writes down his locker combination, class schedule, room numbers and teachers’ names in his planner.
• Shop for school supplies and clothes. Use our easy school shopping guide.
• Confirm child-care arrangements.
• Plan morning, afternoon and evening routines; enforce bedtimes.

One week before:

• Shop for groceries for next week’s lunches.
• Wash all your child’s clothes.
• Visit the school with your child.
• Show your child his bus stop.
• Ask if your child has any concerns.

 The night before:

• Lay out clothes, shoes and backpacks for the next day.
• Plan for breakfast. Get great breakfast recipes here. 
• Put your evening routine into action.
• Get plenty of sleep!