Back to school season always sneaks up faster than we think. One minute it’s popsicles and pool days, the next minute you’re hunting down three-ring binders and the right brand of pencils your kid’s teacher insists on. Whether you’ve got a little one heading into first grade, a teen preparing for high school, or a college student packing up the car, here’s your ultimate back-to-school prep list.
And while we’re at it, don’t miss out on our Back to School Giveaway for your chance at $5000 to cover those extra expenses. Details at the bottom of this post!
1. Get the School Supply List Early
There’s nothing worse than the night-before scramble. Most schools post supply lists online, so grab them now. Stock up on basics like notebooks, folders, pencils, pens, and backpacks. Pro tip: buy extras of the things that always disappear, like glue sticks and erasers, and stash them away for mid-year.
2. Schedule Those Doctor Appointments
Back to school also means making sure everyone’s healthy. Get physicals and sports check-ups out of the way early so you’re not stuck in a packed waiting room the week school starts. Don’t forget eye exams and dental cleanings too.
3. Refresh the Wardrobe
Photo Credit: Canva Media Library
Kids grow fast, and somehow every year it feels like none of last year’s clothes fit. Do a quick closet cleanout and donate what’s too small. Then hit the sales for fresh sneakers, jeans, and that one “first day of school” outfit that makes them feel confident.
4. Reset Sleep Schedules
Summer nights are fun, but late bedtimes and lazy mornings don’t mix well with school buses. Start shifting bedtime and wake-up times a week or two before school begins so the first day doesn’t feel like jet lag.
5. Organize Lunch and Snack Plans
Stock the pantry with easy grab-and-go snacks, and plan out a few healthy lunch ideas ahead of time. Bento boxes, thermoses, and reusable water bottles can make mornings smoother.
6. Savor the Last Days of Summer
Don’t let the to-do list take away from the fun. Plan one more family adventure, whether it’s a day at the lake, a picnic, or a backyard movie night. These little memories help ease the back-to-school blues for both kids and parents.
7. Enter Our Back to School Giveaway!
We know how pricey this season can be. That’s why we’re giving away $5000 to help with school expenses, whether it’s crayons and notebooks, sports gear, or dorm room essentials.
Here’s how to enter:
- Listen for daily keywords from July 28 through August 26.
- Six chances every weekday to text in those words for more entries!
- Catch them during:
- 101.1 The River: 7am with Paul Daly & 4pm with Cassie
- KG95.3: 11am with Bryan Riley & 2pm with Shelbie Lynn
- KWNO’s In the Know with Jason Melillo in the morning & again in the afternoon
- Thanks to our friends at LT Construction for making it happen!
Good luck, and happy back-to-school season!
