North Dakota’s Back-to-School Blitz: The Last-Minute Checklist for Parents

I wrote a piece last week about organizing things so that parents may send their children back to school in comfort. Now that the countdown has concluded, Williston is formally entering back-to-school week! Parents everywhere are getting ready for the upcoming school year as the summer sun sets.

Here's a brief last-minute checklist to make sure everyone is ready for the big day before you send your kids out the door.

1. Gear Up and Double-Check the Supplies
It’s easy to overlook that one elusive glue stick or the specific brand of pencils your child insists they need. Take a few minutes to review the school supply list, and don't forget to label everything! Personalized labels or even a quick initialing with a permanent marker can save you from the “Mom, someone took my notebook!” drama. According to the National Retail Federation, families are expected to spend over $890 on back-to-school supplies this year, so make sure that investment is well organized.

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2. Settle into a Sleep Schedule
Summer’s late nights and lazy mornings are hard to shake off, but getting back into a school-friendly sleep routine is crucial. Pediatricians recommend starting bedtime routines a week before school starts, but even a few days can help. A good night's sleep boosts concentration and mood, setting the stage for a successful school day.

3. Review the Schedule
With school buses, extracurricular activities, and after-school programs, your family calendar might start looking like a NASA launch schedule. Sit down as a family to review the week’s schedule, making sure everyone knows where they need to be and when. A shared family calendar app can be a lifesaver for keeping everyone on track.

With these last-minute touches, you’ll send your kids off to school with everything they need for a great year ahead. Happy back-to-school season!