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Back-to-school tips that make the first week easier

Stephanie Heron | Shoshone News-Press | UPDATED 3 months, 3 weeks AGO
by Stephanie Heron
| July 13, 2026 5:00 AM

Back-to-school tips that can make things easier include creating a family command center and easing into new sleep and morning routines. You can also pack smart instead of packing more and focus on confidence instead of perfection.

The US Department of Health and Human Services reported that 48% of parents say that their stress on most days is completely overwhelming, compared to 26% among other adults. Summer may be a nice respite from regular responsibilities, but going back to school can bring a flurry of activities, which can make things super stressful.

The good news is that with some key back-to-school tips, you and your little ones can handle this transition more smoothly and easily. Here's what to do at the beginning of the year so the first week of school goes nicely.

Create a Family Command Center

The first week of school can feel much smoother when everyone knows where to find important information. Set up a dedicated command center in a high-traffic area of your home with:

  • The weekly schedule
  • Bus times
  • Extracurricular activities
  • Lunch menus
  • Permission slips

Add hooks for backpacks and a basket for papers that need to be signed so that nothing gets lost in the morning rush.

How Can You Ease Into New Sleep and Morning Routines?

A successful first day of school often begins the night before. If your summer schedules have drifted, then start shifting bedtimes and wake-up times a few days before school begins instead of making a sudden change.

Create a relaxing evening routine by:

  • Limiting screens
  • Preparing clothes for the next day
  • Packing lunches or snacks in advance

In the morning, allow extra time during the first few days since unexpected delays are common. A consistent routine will help your kids feel more rested, focused, and confident.

How Can You Pack Smart Instead of Packing More?

It's tempting to overfill backpacks "just in case," but a well-organized bag is more useful than a heavy one. For the school year, use folders or color-coded notebooks for different subjects so assignments stay organized from day one.

Include essentials like:

  • A reusable water bottle
  • Tissues
  • Pencils
  • Required technology chargers

Double-check the supply lists to avoid sending items that aren't needed yet. In addition, at the end of each day, spend a few minutes cleaning out backpacks by removing old papers, food wrappers, and anything that doesn't belong.

Focus on Confidence Instead of Perfection

The first week is about helping children feel comfortable, so encourage them to ask questions if they're unsure where to go and to introduce themselves to their classmates. Celebrate small wins, whether it's finding their classroom independently or remembering their lunch.

Coming up with school traditions can make them feel more confident, too, as can beautiful professional school photography that captures their joy forever.

These Back-to-School Tips Can Make Things Easier

No kid wants to get off of summer break, so transitioning to school again can be challenging. By using our back-to-school tips, you can ensure that your children go back to the classroom with as little stress as possible.

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