It’s almost time for the start of the new school year. Below are a few tips for your family’s back-to-school planning.

Gather Your Information

Start planning in advance for what you and your children need for the upcoming school year. It’s good to have a list of resources whether your child is returning to school or is new to Fairfax County.

• The Fairfax County Public Schools website provides a wealth of information from the school-year calendar, student handbooks, lunch menus, and more.
• Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services offers out-of-school time programs for children and teens.
• The Fairfax County Public Library – Kids Events and Resources provides information about upcoming library programs as well as homework assistance resources, recommended reading lists, and more.
• Fairfax Alerts, a service through Fairfax County, provides emergency alerts, transportation alerts, and news and updates.

Get Organized

Keep your schedules on track and reduce any last-minute frustration by planning ahead and organizing.

• Create a calendar of all activities and place it in an area where every family member can see it.
• Plan lunches and snacks and prep them the night before.
• Plan outfits for the entire week (including any accessories).
• Pack equipment and clothing for any after-school activities the night before.
• Create a space where all items needed for the next day (backpacks, books, activity equipment, shoes, coats, etc.) are placed the evening before.
• Create a “need-to-review” area in your home, like your kitchen counter or table, where your children can place their finished homework, school forms, paperwork that needs signatures, etc., so you are aware of the school items that need to be reviewed or discussed.

I hope these tips and information help you with your family’s back-to-school planning and that you have a great school year!