It’s that time of year again… back to school season! And if your children will be attending Johnston County Public Schools, school starts next Monday, August 28—are you ready for it? If your answer is a frantic, “No!”, fear not. Here’s your last-minute back-to-school checklist.
Did You Prepare Ahead?
If you prepared ahead a little, you might have spent the last few weeks filling out paperwork, scheduling doctors appointments (and filling out more paperwork), sorting through old clothes and organizing closets, donating clothes, buying new clothes, maybe even getting organized with a “family master calendar”.
Doesn’t sound familiar? That’s okay. It’s not too late to get started! Even knocking out one or two of these tasks can save you some hassle in the coming weeks.
Make Sure You Get These Things Done!
Before the school year starts, there are some tasks you really want to make sure you get done. Like, figuring out your after-school plans. Who will be picking up your kids (or will they take the bus)? Do you have a babysitter or other after-school care arranged? Are there any sports, clubs, or activities you’d like to enroll your children in?
Also important is updating emergency contact information—just in case. And if time allows, hit up the office supply stores to make sure your children have all the supplies (pens, pencils, backpack, lunchbox, waterbottle) they need. Call your school or check their website to see if a supplies list has been posted.
It’s Not Too Late To…
Really want to make sure you’re ready for the upcoming year? Here’s a bonus checklist for parents who want to have a really great (and low-stress) school year.
- Prepare your children. Start pushing up bedtimes and wakeup times to gradually adjust your kids to school schedules.
- Get organized. Take a few minutes to plan out a master calendar that shows activities for all family members, so everyone’s on the same page. It can also be helpful to designate a “homework” spot and a “paperwork” spot.
- Plan to be involved. See what volunteer opportunities there are for parents at your school.
- Prep healthy meals and snacks. Sure, it can be easier to buy pre-packaged lunches or fork over some last-minute lunch money, but it’s worth it to take some time to make sure your children are getting nutritious meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Make after-school family plans. It can be easy to get caught up in work and activities and friends… take some time to make some time for family.
Are Your Kids Beginning School in Johnston County Schools for the First Time?
If you’re new to the area, welcome! Johnston County is home to some absolutely fantastic communities, like Clayton, and the school district is pretty great, too. If you’re in the market for a home in Clayton or Johnston County, please feel free to contact me. I’ll help you make the transition easier by providing relocation resources, helping you learn more about buying a home in Clayton, and making sure you find the perfect home in just the right location.