Here are 10 things to remember for the start of the school year:

1. Register for school. If you have moved into a new school district, are changing from a private school to a public school, or if this is your child’s first year of school you will need to contact your local school district and register for classes.  Often there is a waiting period while your student is being enrolled. Make sure you register early so your child won’t miss any days.  Items you will need for registering often include your child’s original birth certificate and social security card along with their immunization record and proof of residency.  Based on your child’s situation you may also be required to have a guardianship or custody paper, individual education plan (IEP) or a 504 Plan, along with school transcripts from previous schooling.

2. Schedule Physicals. Many schools require annual physicals to ensure all immunizations are up to date, especially when your child is entering kindergarten. Also, if your child is planning on playing any sports he or she will need to have a sports physical performed by a physician. This can help to identify any problems that may preclude your child from participation. Check with your coach to find out if free sports physical clinics will be offered in your area.

3. Sort out and organize clothing. This may not seem like a top priority, but when you are rushed to get everyone in the family ready for the day it will be easier to send your child to get dressed knowing the items in their closet still fit. Donate unwanted clothing to local charities or set up a clothing swap with some of your friends and family. This can reduce the overall cost of buying new clothes or you can itemize your donation on your taxes at the end of the year (make sure to keep a detailed list of your donations along with a dated donation slip from the organization). You may also want to provide the school with some clothing to keep in the nurses office.  Contact the school to find out if this is needed.

4. Purchase school supplies. Schools typically provide a specific list of what your child will need. Try not to stray from the list as this will provide you with the best products your school has chosen for the year. Large discount chains such as Walmart and Meijer offer great deals on the supplies, so now is the time to buy.  This may also include items such as cell phones, computers, or other electronic accessories such as a new printer for your home. Some states such as Tennessee offer tax-free seasons for these purchases, so time your purchasing right and you can save a great deal of money.

5. Register your child for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or begin meal planning if your child has specific dietary requirements. The NSLP is the federally assisted meal program available to qualifying children providing low-cost or free lunches to children each school day. Discuss your needs with your child’s teacher if you believe you may qualify for assistance. If your child does not have specific requirements, you may want to print out the lunch menu from your school and begin deciding on how many days your child will buy a lunch from school or pack. This can help you to purchase items that have a longer shelf-life such as cookies, fruit cups, or chips while the products are on sale.

6. Arrange Before and After School Care. In today’s society, many families have two working adults or you may be a single parent. If your jobs do not provide you with flex time, you may need to arrange before and after school care for your children. Check with your school to see if a program is offered through the school or look for private companies offering services. Local YMCA, daycares, and churches are often good resources for this type of child care.

7. Plan for Transportation. If your school offers busing, make sure your child is on the bus route. Then plan accordingly to make sure your child has a safe pick-up and drop-off location. Check with your state’s Department of Social Services to see if your state has a minimum age for leaving children unsupervised. If you are leaving your child at home alone, review house rules, safety rules and emergency situation procedures with your child.

8. Register your child for sports, music, and other extracurricular activities. If your school requires advanced registration for pay to play programs, then you may want to research requirements and cost. You will also need to arrange transportation for any after school programs when your child will not be able to ride the bus home.

9. Review school rules and regulations. Take time to review the rules with your child. Zero tolerance rules are in place to protect our students from violence, but it is not uncommon to hear about young children being expelled for bringing a pocket knife or toy gun to school. Make sure your child understands the rules and how to report suspicious activity (not tattle-telling). You may also want to ensure the clothing your child has are appropriate for school.  Review dress code information and purchase new clothes as required. Often younger students can wear a wider range of clothing such as shorts and skirts with few restrictions, as children get older length requirements may be enforced.

10. Talk to your child. Starting a new grade, going to a new school, or simply returning to school can be stressful for many students. Anxiety about studying, fitting in, or the fear of failing flourish for students at this time of year. Be open with your child and set the stage for communication throughout the school year. Let your child know you are there for them if they need assistance or have questions.

It would be difficult if not impossible to cover all bases prior to starting a new school year, but these are a few reminders to help you ease the pain. Check with your local schools to find out specific requirements or if you have your own anxiety for the new school year!

Do you have any recommendations for parents? We would love to hear your suggestions. Feel free to post questions or comments.