Get Organized Now for School Year Success

It seems like every summer zooms by faster than the prior one, and this year is no exception.
And you know what that means - ready or not, the start of the school year will be here soon.
Whether it's kindergarten or college, here are some tips to help you get things in place for a smooth launch.
Clean out the closets.
There's nothing more stressful than a child dawdling in front of the closet trying to figure out what to wear while the screech of the school bus brakes can be heard out the window.
Pare down the closet of items that don't fit or just don't get worn.
Less clothing in the closet means fewer time-consuming decisions to be made on school mornings.
Buy those supplies.
Get the school supply list and start shopping now so there's no last-minute scramble.
Also consider buying items now that you might otherwise be making a mad dash for the night before a project is due - poster board, glue, construction paper, etc.
Get the calendar set up.
Get a large wall calendar everyone can see, or set up shareable calendars electronically using tools such as Google calendar.
Write all important dates and times on the calendar - days off, activities, meetings, etc.
Consider using a separate color for each family member.
Each student should also have their own student planner to record assignments and activities, including when they will be shopping with you for school supplies.
Set up a study space.
Whether it's a desk in their room or the dining room table, your student's study space has probably gathered dust and a variety of random stuff since the last school year ended.
Clear off the clutter and get that space ready to roll so by the time the first assignment is given, your child can sit right down and get to work.
Practice school hours.
At least one week before school starts, implement school-year hours.
Set bedtime and wake-up times that correspond to the upcoming school schedule so you and your students can get the "I'm too tired" grumpiness out of the way before the first day of class.
Have groceries ready.
Remind yourself of what you'll need for school lunches and snacks.
Have your students help you create the grocery list and shop for what you'll need so making lunches will be a snap.
Best wishes for a great school year.