Get organized for back to school this weekend

Kids are crying and parents are rejoicing. It’s back to school.

Summertime fun ends Tuesday when kids hit the books once more.

This weekend is the last opportunity to get everything in order.

The biggest tip the Calgary Board of Education’s Jennifer Thompson has is be patient and positive with the youngsters.

Going to school, especially for the first time, is a big change and the switch can be exhausting for students, so make it positive and exciting.

To make sure they’re ready come Tuesday, start practicing going to school this weekend.

“Do a dry run of your new morning routine, including the walk to the school, or even the bus stop. Maybe you can take your child to the school playground, or walk around the school so they can become familiar with it,” says Thompson.

For older students, know your route to school either on transit or by car; if you’re driving make sure where you can and can’t park.

Also establish a consistent bed time. The first week back to school is exhausting and a good night’s rest will go a long way!

You’ll also want to check out your school’s website.

“It has all kinds of information such as bell times, so you’ll know what time you need to be there to get into class,” explains Sean Myers with the Calgary Catholic School District.

“Once you’ve taken a look at that, you should plan to actually be there early and give your kids lots of time to get used to their surroundings, meet their teachers.”

Double check that supply list, and above all, have fun.