Back-to-school preparation 2023

Start the school routine a week before school starts so your children are adjusted to the school routine. What the video below to learn more about the importance of good sleep and how to get it.

Back-to-school shopping:

Find out what you child may need for the upcoming year. Teachers may also ask for additional classroom supplies like tissues, baby wipes, sanitizing wipes, hand sanitizer and soap.

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MORE: Tips for smart back-to-school shopping from NYC's Department of Consumer and Worker Protection

MORE: How to save on school supplies by tapping your community

Meet the teacher:

Bring your child to meet his/her teacher and see the classroom ahead of class. Some districts have supply drop off dates when students can see the classroom. School districts and teachers may be offering virtual meet-and-greets for those that can't make it into the school.

The day before

Check supplies:

Fill backpacks ahead of time with important papers, school information and make sure your children have everything they need on their supply list. Don't forget any health documents needed for the nurse!

MORE: Back-to-school health checklist

Pack lunch:

Pack a lunch ready with different healthy snacks. If you have an elementary school-aged kid check out what to pack, and not to pack here.

Click here to learn more about how to pack your child a heart-healthy school lunch, and watch the video below for the importance of a healthy meal:

The day of

Eat a healthy breakfast:

Send your children off to school with a healthy breakfast that will keep them full and focused until lunchtime. Understand the arrival and dismissal procedure.
Make sure that your child knows their bus number or who is picking them up at the end of the school day.
If taking the bus or mass transit, make sure your child knows the rules.

MORE: Is your child taking the school bus? Here are tips to keep them safe

MORE: School buses and students are back on the road! These tips for drivers help protect children

MORE: Tips for children walking or bicycling to school

After school

Homework space:

Have a designed space for your child to do their homework. Make sure it is a quiet place where they are not easily distracted.

Paperwork:

Parents/guardians should fill out emergency contact information and look over any other important documents the school sends home.
Learn what steps to take if you, your child or anyone you came into contact with becomes sick.

Communication with teacher:

Email and have regular phone conversations with teachers. If possible attend back-to-school nights and parent-teacher conferences. These meetings may be virtual, making it easier for some working parents to attend while at work.

Look out for signs of bullying or stress:

As the school year moves forward, communicate with your child to see if they are feeling stressed in school.
Cyberbullying Information at HealthyChildren.org
Click here for tips to help prevent bullying. And watch the video below to learn how to identify bullying:

For more back-to-school resources and stories across News 12 Networks click in the links below: