2019 Back to School Guide

The stores have spoken. It is back-to-school time again. Whether you are ready for the bell to ring or you wish the summer could stretch just a little longer, it is time to start preparing. This guide will help you whether this is your first time leading a little one to the bus stop or a seasoned pro.

How to prepare:

Ease back into the school year routine. Getting ready for school isn’t just about shopping. Set an earlier bedtime and start implementing it two weeks early in order to make it a habit.

Choose a few quick and healthy breakfast options ahead of time so you aren’t rushing to find food the morning of the big day. That way, you won’t be tempted to skip the most important meal of the day. Research suggests that children (and adults) who eat breakfast perform better throughout the day.

Take the kids shopping for their list of school supplies. It might seem like a hassle to include the kids but letting them make decisions like folder color and marker brand goes a long way towards easing some first-day jitters and making them feel like a part of the process.

If school supply lists seem overwhelming, stores like Target offer services like School List Assist. You select the school, and Target adds the items needed to your cart. You can either have them shipped or pick up in the store.

If clothes shopping is needed (and whose kid hasn’t outgrown everything?) consider shopping at one of the areas thrift shops before hitting the local big box store or the mall. Gently used clothing costs less and can help us keep it out of the landfills. Check below for a list of shops in the area.

Talk about what your child can expect on the first day. Talk about how fun school is and how much they will learn. Ask questions about how they feel about school starting, and then honor those feelings. Take them seriously, and your child will know that you understand and have their back.

Consider holding a rehearsal for the first day of school. Go through your family’s morning routine so everyone (including grown-ups) will know what to expect. We are always more confident when we know what to expect.

Fit in all the summer fun you can! Click here for our suggestions for an End-of-Summer Bucket List.

Hunterdon County YMCA

A new school year is filled with potential—a chance to start new routines and habits, build new friendships and discover new possibilities and interests. The Hunterdon County YMCA has everything you need for back to school including: