1 Day Until School: Last-Minute Back-to-School Checklist

Tomorrow's the big day! Are you ready? Is your child?

Just to be sure, here are a few last-minute things to think about as you're preparing for the first day of school.

1. Know the route to school. If your child walks, does he or she know the safest route? If your child is riding a bike, is the bike in good working order? Does your child have a helmet? 
2. Go over the schedule. What time is your child getting up? When does school start? Are they in before- or after-school care? If your child is in middle or high school, what is his or her class schedule? What time are they returning home, and will someone be there waiting? Does he or she have emergency phone numbers handy? Going over the schedule tonight can help eliminate confusion in the morning.
3. Double check bus pick-up/drop-off times. Before you send your child to the bus stop Tuesday morning, make sure the pick-up time is still accurate and that you know when your child is expected to return home. Also consider going over the one more time, especially if it is his or her first time riding the bus.
4. Pack a lunch. Or, make sure your child has money for lunch at school. For tips on packing a healthy lunch, .
5. Don't forget a snack. Many classrooms are nut-free, and some schools have a healthy-snack-only policy, so be sure to send something energy-packed and healthy.
6. Pack the backpack. For tips on packing and carrying a backpack, .
7. Prep for the back-to-school breakfast. If you're planning on making a special breakfast for your child in the morning for the first day of school, setting out some of the items you'll need ahead of time can save valuable time in the morning.
8. Send a gift for teacher. This is optional, of course, but or note for your child to give to his or her teacher can be a great start to the school year.

Countdown to School

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• 16 Days: Practice your bike route
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