Can you believe how quickly summer has flown by? Between playdates, beach days, and backyard adventures, the new school year always seems to sneak up on us. And while back-to-school season can feel exciting and overwhelming. These simple back to school tips for parents will help you prepare your child for the first day of school, ease into new routines, and feel more organized.
Back-to-School Prep in 6 Steps
To get your child ready for back-to-school, you can:
- Plan back-to-school shopping early
- Prepare and stock your child’s backpack
- Ease into school mode with morning routines
- Give children gentle reminders about the first day
- Use affirmations to build confidence
- Continue learning at home
1. Plan Back-to-School Shopping Early to Ensure Your Child is Ready
Before buying everything new, check what still fits from last year. Shoes, jackets, and backpacks often last longer than we think, and replacing what’s missing in advance avoids the last-minute rush. Even though winter may feel far away, having coats and mittens ready now will save you later. For little ones, a clean crib-size sheet and a small blanket can also help make the first week smoother.
2. Organize Your Child’s Backpack
Think of the backpack as your child’s little home base during the day. Pack an extra outfit, a cozy sweater, and a favourite comfort item. Add essentials like a water bottle, sunscreen, and, if your child is still potty training, pull-ups or rash cream. Having everything ready helps both you and your child start the day with confidence.
3. Reset the Morning and Bedtime Routine
Switching from summer mornings to school mornings takes time. About a week before school begins, start adjusting bedtime and wake-up times little by little each day. Laying out clothes the night before helps mornings feel calmer and less rushed.
4. Encourage Your Child with Gentle Emotional Reminders Before Starting the New School Year
Children feel more secure when they know what to expect. Mark the first day on a calendar so they can count down and get excited. Talk about the friends they’ll see, the teachers they’ll meet, and the fun activities ahead. You could even do a “practice morning” — breakfast, getting dressed, and packing the backpack — so the first day feels familiar.
5. Use Affirmations to Build Confidence
A few kind words can go a long way in helping children feel ready. Try saying together, “You are ready for new adventures” or “You are kind, smart, and ready to learn.” These short affirmations give children the extra boost they need to walk into the classroom with a smile.
6. Continue Learning at Home
At-home learning keeps little ones curious and engaged. Read together daily (back-to-school themed books are a fun pick), count objects on walks, or enjoy creative projects like drawing and building. These small but meaningful moments help children transition back into learning mode while strengthening your bond.
How CEFA Helps Make Back-to-School Easier
At CEFA Early Learning, we understand that back-to-school can feel like a big milestone for families. That’s why our summer programs help children stay engaged so routines feel natural when September arrives. With CEFA uniforms, parents don’t have to worry about daily outfit choices, and healthy meals prepared by our in-house chefs mean lunch prep is one less thing on your plate. Most importantly, our academic-based curriculum and caring teachers support your child’s confidence, social-emotional skills, and love of learning — so they step into the school year not just prepared, but excited to thrive.
Back-to-School FAQs for Parents
An extra outfit, a sweater, water bottle, sunscreen, and a small comfort item. If your child is still potty training, include pull-ups and rash cream.
About two to three weeks before school starts. This gives you time to replace what no longer fits and avoid the last-minute rush.
Talk about school in a positive way, mark the first day on a calendar, and try a practice morning routine. Daily affirmations also help boost confidence.