Conquer the First Day: Your Ultimate Back-to-School Checklist

Start preparing well in advance. Tackling just a few things 2-3 weeks before the first day means you won't be rushing around trying to do everything at the last minute. Here are five tasks you can do well ahead of time:

• Review the school-provided supply list and take inventory of existing supplies to determine what needs to be purchased. Involving your child in this process can make back-to-school shopping more enjoyable and help them feel prepared. We've included a school supply list at the end of this article for reference. Elevate your back-to-school game with Minted's collection of artist-designed school essentials. We're here to help you start the year off in style.
• Schedule any necessary doctor's appointments. This includes physicals or immunizations. If you get them done well in advance, you can avoid the back-to-school rush. This will also give you time to fill out any required health forms for the school.
• Wrap up summer assignments. If your child has summer assignments, create a schedule to help them complete the work gradually over the remaining weeks. This will prevent last-minute cramming and reduce stress for both you and your child.
• Assign tasks to your child. Encourage independence by assigning age-appropriate tasks, such as organizing school supplies or picking out outfits. This can boost your child's confidence and help them feel more prepared for the upcoming year.
• Find a calendar, organizer, and/or journal you like. These items can help you stay organized throughout the entire school year. Minted has beautiful journal and calendar designs you can customize—you can even order them with your family's picture on it!

• Order personalized name labels. Personalized labels make it easy for children to identify and keep track of their belongings. Pro tip: Custom labels from Minted are an easy, stylish, and time-saving way to address all your labeling needs. They’re also machine washable and dishwasher safe so you can confidently place them on nearly all of your child’s items.

• Begin establishing a consistent sleep schedule that aligns with the school year. Gradually adjusting bedtimes and wake times can make the transition easier when school starts. Here are a few tips:

1. Shift bedtime in 15-minute increments: Shift your child's bedtime and wake-up time by 15 minutes about every 3 days. This gradual transition to the school-year sleep schedule will be smoother and more manageable for everyone.
2. Consistent routine: Maintain the new bedtime and wake time every day, including weekends, to help your child's body adjust.
3. Wind-down time: Introduce a calming pre-sleep routine, such as bathing or reading a book, 30 minutes before bedtime.
4. Limit screen time: Try to avoid electronic devices at least one hour before bed. This promotes better sleep.
5. Create a sleep-inducing environment: Ensure the bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool. Consider using a white noise machine if necessary.

As the first day of school draws near, it's time to focus on the final preparations that will set your child up for success. Here are tasks to tackle in the week leading up to the big day:

• Pack their backpack with the school supplies you purchased and prepared, checking that everything fits comfortably and is easily accessible. Encourage your child to practice using zippers, buckles, and lunchboxes to build confidence and familiarity.
• Plan outfits for the first week of school, focusing on comfort, appropriateness, and adherence to any dress codes. Involving your child in the selection process can help them feel more excited and prepared.
• Label (nearly) everything. Labeling items with your child's name helps prevent loss and mixups, especially in busy school environments where many kids have similar supplies.

Items that may need labeling include backpacks, lunch boxes, water bottles, jackets/coats, hats/gloves, pencil cases, binders/notebooks, calculators, scissors, rulers, sports equipment (balls, bats, etc.), musical instruments, art supplies (paint boxes, brushes, etc.).

• Set up a dedicated homework station in a quiet area of your home, equipped with a comfortable chair, good lighting, and essential supplies like pencils, paper, and a calculator. This will create an ideal environment for learning and concentration. If you're looking for inspiration, browse Minted's collection of kids art prints.

• Review school information. Especially if it is a new school, be sure to look up and familiarize yourself with drop-off and pick-up procedures, classroom locations, the school schedule, the school calendar, and the teacher's name ahead of time.
• Engage your child in back-to-school conversations, discussing topics like their hopes for the new year, favorite subjects, and any concerns they may have. Open communication can help alleviate anxiety and build excitement.

On the eve of the first day of school make your final preparations. These simple tasks will lighten the morning rush and ensure your child feels confident and ready to tackle the day ahead:

• Lay out a complete outfit for the first day, including shoes and accessories, to streamline the morning routine and prevent last-minute fashion dilemmas.
• Double-check the backpack and check that all supplies, such as notebooks, pens, and school forms, are packed and easily accessible.
• Need to prepare lunch? If your child brings lunch from home, consider preparing it and setting out the lunch bag the night before to save valuable time in the morning rush.
• Encourage your child to wind down with a relaxing and calming bedtime routine. It could be anything from reading a book to taking a warm bath.

The big day is finally here! It's time to send your child off to their first day of school. The air is filled with both excitement and energy, and thankfully, you’ll be prepared thanks to these tips:

• Wake up early to avoid any morning rushes or delays. Having extra time will help set a calm tone for the day.
• Prepare a nutritious breakfast to fuel your child's mind and body. Studies show that eating a balanced meal in the morning can improve focus, concentration, and overall academic performance.
• Briefly re-review any important information about drop-off procedures, classroom locations, or schedules to avoid confusion or delays on the first day.
• Take first-day photos to capture the excitement and milestones. These will become cherished memories for years to come.
• Most importantly, offer plenty of encouragement and positive affirmations. Remind your child of their strengths, capabilities and how proud you are of their efforts.
• When your child returns home, greet them with enthusiasm and allow them to share their first-day experiences freely. Ask open-ended questions about their favorite parts of the day, new friends they may have made, and any challenges they faced. Validate their feelings, whether excited or apprehensive, and reassure them that the first day is just the beginning of an incredible journey.

From pencils and paper to organizers and tech, having the right tools can make all the difference for productive learning. Our handy list covers everything your student needs to start the academic year feeling confident and ready to conquer each day.

As you work through these final preparations, consider adding some personalization with Minted's unique selection of back-to-school essentials. From customized notebooks to stylish lunch boxes, our products will help your child express their individuality while staying organized and motivated throughout the year.

Personal Items:

• Backpack
• Lunch bag with lunch and snacks
• Water bottle
• Face mask and hand sanitizer
• Jacket or sweater (if needed)
• Name labels

School Supplies:

• Notebooks
• Binders/folders
• Pencils and pens
• Pencil case
• Erasers
• Highlighters
• Markers or colored pencils
• Glue sticks
• Scissors
• Ruler
• Calculator
• Index cards

Personal Identification:

• School ID or name tag
• Bus pass (if applicable)

Health and Safety:

• Medications (with instructions and school nurse's contact)
• Emergency contact information

Clothing:

• School uniform or chosen outfit
• Sports or P.E. clothes
• Comfortable shoes

Technology:

• Charged laptop/tablet (if required)
• Chargers for devices
• Earbuds/headphones

Documents and Forms:

• Completed registration forms
• Signed permission slips
• Emergency contact form
• Health forms (including vaccination records)

Miscellaneous:

• Library books to return
• Planner or agenda

With your loving support and preparation, your child will tackle the first day of school with enthusiasm and resilience. By following this comprehensive checklist, you'll minimize stress and create a smooth transition back to the classroom. Remember, being well-prepared reduces anxiety and allows students to focus on the joys of learning and personal growth.

Don't forget to add creativity and self-expression to your child's school experience. Minted's collection of back-to-school essentials offers a wide range of customizable products that will help your child stand out and feel confident. From personalized notebooks and folders to stylish lunchboxes and backpacks, our high-quality supplies are designed to inspire and delight. Explore Minted's back-to-school shop today and discover the perfect accessories to make this school year both organized and unforgettable.