<p>I knew once we hit the last week in June, our summer was as good as gone.</p><p>The quick pace of weekend getaways, camp and family fun experiences all slid one right into another. We packed in more than I thought possible during the space of three weeks. We finally made it back home to regroup. And I came to the realization that in approximately one week’s time, the kids would return to the classroom.</p><p>In fact, a day before I texted my daughters — as my husband drove us home from a trip celebrating our 20th anniversary — to begin compiling their back-to-school lists. As a family, we use the fabulous digital calendar and list making app Cozi. I knew if they added necessary items and transcribed the lists from their schools in one place, it would be easier for me to track.</p><p>As they compiled their wants and needs, the usual suspects popped up: pencils and pens, notebooks and folders. After scanning the cabinets at home, I confirmed what we really needed and then headed to the store. But no matter how many of the items I checked off my list, I knew we’d need more.</p><p>If you’re like me, you may have forgotten a few essentials. These key components keep the crazy at bay during one of the busiest seasons of the year.</p><p>Water</p><p>Heading back to school equals a change in routines. Your kids spend longer hours immersed in classroom learning. Many will head straight to practice or work after that. Moms and dads spend more time in the pick-up and drop-off lines. And don’t forget the time spent in the stands cheering for their favorite little athletes. In the midst of the new pace, it’s easy for kids and adults alike to lose track of basic needs.</p><p>Be sure to add intentional hydration to your list right along with those essential school supplies. If you already own reusable water bottles, it’s a good idea to pull those out of the cabinet. Fill them and place in the refrigerator so they’re ready at a moment’s notice.</p><p>First aid supplies</p><p>Accidents happen. As the kids head back to playing with friends at recess and being exposed to a different set of germs, odds are good that someone will end up sick or hurt. Your medicine cabinet may require a bit of a makeover.</p><p>Stock up pain relievers, bandages and perhaps some basic over-the-counter meds to bring relief to tummies or noses. Organize items so they’re close at hand when needed. And if you have the budget, send a box of bandages in to the teacher, too.</p><p>Rest</p><p>While you can’t purchase sleep at the store, you do need to stock up on rest. First week of school creates a special kind of tired. It’s not just a result of the early morning hours at the bus stop. The emotional transition of beginning a new grade or maybe even a new school wears down both kids and parents.</p><p>It’s tempting to remain in your summertime sleep schedule. However, everyone will function better with more rest. Consider what contributes to a good night’s sleep for you and your family. Maybe it’s a favorite pair of PJs. Or perhaps you may want to change the sheets. To guarantee you go to bed on time, set an alarm or a reminder on your phone. Work the bedtime stories. Say your bedtime prayers. Stretch or strike a few yoga poses. Take the time to prepare for sleep.</p><p>Easy fix meals</p><p>Back-to-school isn’t the right time to decide to become a professional chef. While it is a great time to gather your family around the table to break bread and share the best parts of your day, don’t complicate things.</p><p>Skip the brand new recipes and stick with classic favorites. If the weather trends hot, plan meals that don’t require your oven. Try to keep your prep time at thirty minutes or less. Purchase foods that lend themselves to these types of meals.</p><p>Extra basics</p><p>I love office supplies. But I really love spending less than a dollar for office supplies. And while the kids need crayons and notecards and glue to launch into a new year, you may need a few extras, too.</p><p>In the middle of the school year, school supplies will need replenished. However, the prices won’t be as consumer friendly. While you can, build an affordable stockpile. Future you will thank you for spending less and saving time, too.</p><p>Yes, back to school season is busy. And it can be expensive if you’re not careful. But this time of year is ripe with the potential for savings, too. It also abounds with the opportunity to set a new rhythm and outlook for an entire school year. The supplies you need most may not make the list on your school’s website. Think outside of the box and prepare for the days ahead. It’s going to be a great year.</p>
