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10 Point Checklist: What every parent needs to know

Before you know it, the back-to-school rush will be on -- the rush to get supplies, the rush to get out the door in the morning, the rush to complete homework. Rush, rush, rush. While there's still time, take a tip or ten from local parents and educators on how best to prepare yourself  . . . Continued 

  1. Shop yesterday, today and tomorrow for school supplies. But whatever you do, don't wait until the last minute. Many schools send home with the final report card a list of school supplies needed for the next grade. If you can't find it or your child is going to a new school, call now to get a list. Some parents prefer to pick up things here and there as they find them; others like to get it all over with at once. Either way, look for bargains. Remember it's not a bargain if it's not what the child needs.  Children's Safety Scissors, Asstd. Color Handles
  2. Register your child for school early and make sure immunizations are up to date. Most schools require certain immunizations at certain ages. It's especially important when entering a new school. Contact the school and request a tour before school starts. There will be no time on opening day.
  3. Use permanent marker pens to mark the children's names on everything they take to school. If you're writing their names on lunch boxes or other containers that are likely to be washed repeatedly, cover the name with clear tape. It'll go through several washings. But don't put the name in obvious sight, that could be dangerous.
  4. Don't let kids take the summer off. This works best if started in June, but it's not too late. Children should read all summer. If they're too young to read, read to them. One mom made a list of activities and things she planned to do for her sons that summer and then made them earn the privileges by reading books ( assigned point values based on difficulty)
  5. Learn the phone number for your child's school and make sure they know yours - home telephone, cell phone, work phone, beepers and emergency numbers. If something major is going on in your personal life, a separation, divorce, illness or death, communicate with teachers and school officials. It helps them to know what may be affecting your child emotionally.
  6. Know the school dress policy and help enforce it.
  7. Think nutrition. Start with a lunch box big enough to hold all those containers you plan to send. If your children but lunches, make sure you know what they are being served and what they are eating. 
  8. Stick to a schedule. Don't wait until the night before school to get back into the school routine.
  9. Make your child responsible for homework from the start. They are responsible for bringing home assignments and for doing them. If you as the parent, assume the responsibility and constantly bail out your child, the children will gladly surrender responsibility and you'll be stuck - right through high school and beyond!
  10. The most important tip I believe in, is being active in your children's education. Get to know your children's teachers and administrators, before school starts. Join the PTA and plan to volunteer in school at least once a month. Read all paperwork that comes home and be prepared for a lot of it in the first week.