The Ultimate Back-to-School Checklist for Parents (2026)

As summer winds down, it’s time to start thinking about the back-to-school essentials. We’ve put together a quick checklist to help you get everything in order before the first bell rings!

1. Clothing and Shoes

• Fit Check: Kids grow so fast! Go through their clothes to see what still fits and what needs replacing.
• Uniforms: If uniforms are required, ensure you’ve got enough and that they’re in good condition.
• Seasonal Gear: Double-check for jackets, gym shoes, and rain gear.

2. Haircuts

• Book Early: A fresh haircut can boost confidence on the first day of school and for school pictures. Here are some local places for kids haircuts.

3. School Supplies

• Official Lists: Grab the supply list from your child’s school to make sure you’re getting the right items.
• Label Everything: Avoid mix-ups by labeling supplies, especially pricey items like calculators and lunchboxes.

4. Backpacks and Lunchboxes

• Check Last Year’s Gear: Is their backpack still holding up? How’s the lunchbox? Replace if needed.
• Snack Stock: Keep healthy snacks on hand for those busy school days.

Back-to-school season is the perfect time to introduce or refresh chore responsibilities using our tried-and-tested kid chore tracking templates.

5. Health Checks

• Schedule Appointments: Get those physicals, dental check-ups, and eye exams done before the school rush.
• Immunizations: Ensure your child’s vaccinations are up to date.

6. Sleep Routine

• Adjust Bedtime: Gradually move bedtime earlier to ease into the school schedule.
• Morning Practice: Run through the morning routine a few times to help everyone get into the groove.

7. Organize a School Zone at Home

• Homework Station: Set up a dedicated space stocked with all the supplies they’ll need.
• Family Calendar: Use a calendar to keep track of important dates and activities.

8. Sports and Activities

• Check Deadlines: Many fall activities have early registration. Check out our Class & Activity Guide for fun ideas.
• Gear Up: Make sure your child has the necessary equipment for their sports or activities.
• Balance the Schedule: Keep an eye on the overall schedule to avoid burnout. Rest and play are just as important!
• Talk about Sportsmanship: As kids return to school and dive into their favorite fall sports, teaching them about good sportsmanship becomes more important than ever. Discover 5 expert-backed tips to help your child develop positive behaviors on and off the field in our guide to raising a good sport. Learn how to foster teamwork, resilience, and respect during this season’s sports activities.

Don’t miss our essential parent guide for school transitions for additional tips beyond this checklist.

9. Mental Prep

• Talk It Out: If your child feels nervous about going back to school, talk about what to expect and address their concerns.
• First Day Fun: Plan a special breakfast or after-school treat to make the first day something to look forward to.

10. Technology Check:

• Device Readiness: If your child uses a tablet or laptop for school, make sure it’s working properly and any necessary software or apps are updated.
• Charging Station: Set up a designated spot for charging devices overnight to avoid morning rushes.

With these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for the school year ahead. Here’s to a smooth transition back to the classroom! 🌟

Related Posts:

• How To Prepare Your Child For the First Day of School
• 5 Practical Back to School Tips From Teachers
• 10 Back To School Hacks To Save You Time
• 150 Best Lunch Box Jokes For Kids