Like every year, the summer that seemed so long and daunting at the beginning of the season is coming to a quick close, which means it’s time to get those ducks in a row for another academic year. I think we’re pretty ready here in our household. We’ve purchased our dress code polo shirts and cargo shorts, way-too-expensive athletic shoes, loads of school supplies, backpacks (we’re recycling this year, because I just can’t stomach buying another pair of packs), and new lunch boxes are in route to our front door! We’ll score some fresh haircuts just before the first day of the 3rd and 5th grades, and we’re planning a backyard boy bash for the last Friday before the big day. I think we’re set. How about you?

]]> http://planetkidonline.com/2011/08/01/back-to-school-basics/feed/ 0 http://planetkidonline.com/2009/08/10/how-to-buy-lunch-meat/ http://planetkidonline.com/2009/08/10/how-to-buy-lunch-meat/#comments Mon, 10 Aug 2009 11:52:05 +0000 Jacki Donaldson http://planetkidonline.com/?p=2452 Welcome to the week of How-To. For the next five days, we’ll be featuring videos that will teach you a little something. First up, for those of you gearing up for back to school lunches (or those who just like a sandwich now and then), how to buy lunch meat.

Tomorrow: How to Swaddle Your Baby.

Giggle, this great little magazine in my area (that would be Gainesville, Fl.) features in their August 2009 issue all sorts of tips for surviving back-to-school season. Here are a few:

• Gradually move bedtime back to a reasonable hour.
• Gradually move the wake-up alarm to the right hour for your family’s morning routine.
• Locate your school supply list, and start shopping now.
• Stock up on non-perishable lunchbox foods.
• Gather up dollar bills and quarters for lunch money and other requests.
• Create a file for each kid to hold class lists, school flyers, PTA materials and more.
• Determine where you’ll display your kids’ school work — the fridge, bulletin boards, a clothesline strung along the playroom?

What tricks can you share for a seamless transition back to school?

Photo: jaylopez, sxc.hu

You know you’ll need to buy your kids jeans for school this year, right? I mean, chances are when your tykes hike up their last-year pants, they’re going to be super tight and super short. That’s what happens when our wee ones grow into big kids.

Good Housekeeping has the scoop on all sorts of best back-to-school buys, and Suite 101 sums up the dirt on denim. Click here for the lowdown. Hint: Plan to visit KMart, Target and Old Navy.

Photo: lifecreations, Flickr