School Is (Almost) Back in Session Checklist
- Organized Sunshine
- Aug 1
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 4

Getting all your kids ready for back-to-school can feel like prepping for lift-off at NASA—but with more glitter glue and missing shoes.
Here's a practical and slightly humorous guide to help you organize the chaos and actually feel ready when that first bell rings.
1. Make a Master Checklist (and Check it Twice)
Create one big back-to-school checklist that includes:
Supplies (per kid, per teacher list)
Backpacks, lunch boxes, and water bottles
Clothes, shoes, underwear, socks (do a try-on session!)
Registration forms, medical forms, emergency contacts
Haircuts (you will forget if it’s not on the list)
Post the list on the fridge and cross things off as you go—it’s deeply satisfying.
2. Do a School Supply & Closet Inventory First
Before hitting the store:
Check last year’s supplies. You might not need 6 new glue sticks.
Lay out clothes and see what actually fits.This avoids overspending and minimizes late-night online orders.
3. Get Everyone Mentally Prepped
Talk about routines, wake-up times, school rules, and what to expect. Ease their anxiety (and yours) by:
Visiting the school or classroom if possible
Letting younger kids practice opening lunch containers and zippers
Reading a few back-to-school books together
4. Start the Routine Early
A week or two before school starts:
Shift bedtimes and wake-up times gradually
Reintroduce breakfast routines and morning routines
Practice getting out the door on time (even if it's just a dry run to Target)
5. Meal Prep Like a Pro (or at Least a Tired Parent)
Stock up on lunchbox staples and easy breakfast options
Prep and freeze a few dinners for those crazy first weeks
If they’re old enough, teach the kids how to pack part of their lunch—it’s a life skill, not child labor
6. Use a Shared Family Calendar
Plug in:
First day of school
Orientation nights
Sports/activities
Supply deadlines and spirit days (they sneak up!)
7. Prep Backpacks & Launch Stations
Designate a “school zone” at home with:
Backpack hooks or bins
Lunchbox spot
Shoes lined up
A drawer or basket for signed papers and forms
8. Manage Expectations—Yours and Theirs
Someone will cry (it might be you)
Someone will forget something (also possibly you)
Not everything needs to be Pinterest-perfect
Celebrate small wins, get through the first week, and remember: routines will settle, nerves will calm, and you’ll eventually drink your coffee while it’s still hot.
Comments