Start sending your child to bed earlier and waking them slightly earlier between now and when school starts. This will save you from hours of frustration and arguments later.
Go through your or your child(ren) school wardrobe with them. Donate or hand down anything in their closets that no longer fits. Wash, dry clean and repair any clothing items if necessary. Throw away any items stained or damaged beyond use. Have a pad and pen on hand while you're doing this to jot down any clothing you have to pick up prior to the school season.
Designate a spot for school papers that need to be read and/or signed. Ask your kids to include permission slips, homework, or anything else needing a signature in this spot when they come home from school. Each day, go through them, read and sign as necessary, and return to his or her backpack.
If your child is home alone between the time school is out and you return from work prepare a list of phone numbers and contact information and post in a conspicuous place.
Teach them to be safe. Watch for strangers, strange cars, or things out of the ordinary in the neighborhood.
Work with your neighbors to establish a neighborhood safe-house.
Talk with your child everyday about their homework and classroom assignments even if they don't need your help doing the homework. It is good to know what's going on and being taught in your child's classroom.
Find out who they eat and haang out with everyday. you should know this.
