Back-to-School Prep That Starts Now (Because August Came Fast)

Family Compassion
Aug 4
2 min read

Somehow it’s already August 1, and while there’s still time to soak up summer, it’s also time to start thinking about the school year ahead. Not in a panic, but with intention.

If you're feeling like July flew by (because it did), here’s how you can start getting back-to-school ready this week—without losing your mind or the last of your summer joy.

1. Ease Back Into a Sleep Schedule

Those late summer nights have been sweet, but now’s the time to start inching bedtime and wake-up time closer to school hours. Start small: 15–30 minutes earlier every few days. This will make mornings a lot less chaotic once school starts.

2. Take Inventory Before You Shop

Instead of rushing into back-to-school sales, take 30 minutes to see what you already have—backpacks, supplies, clothes that still fit. Make a short list of true needs so you don’t overspend. Pro tip: Buy a few must-haves now, then wait for Labor Day deals for the rest.

3. Test-Run School Mornings

Pick one or two days this week to do a practice run. Wake up, make breakfast, and do a timed routine to see what works and what needs tweaking. It may sound extra, but it’ll reduce stress dramatically in a few weeks.

4. Do a Light Academic Warm-Up

You don’t need to crack open textbooks—but encourage kids to read, write, or engage in a few brain-boosting games. Try:

A short daily journal entry
Word puzzles or math games
Reading together or visiting the library

5. Handle the Paperwork Early

Now is the time to:

Schedule physicals or immunizations
Submit school forms
Double-check bus routes or after-school plans Knock out the boring stuff now so it doesn’t pile up the week before school starts.

6. Check in Emotionally

Kids don’t always say they’re anxious—but a lot of them are. Start the conversation now:

What are you looking forward to this year?
What feels hard or stressful about going back?
How can I support you better this time?

Normalize nervousness and excitement.

7. Set Intentions, Not Just Goals

Ask your kids (and yourself): What kind of energy do we want to bring into this year? Instead of just focusing on grades or performance, center things like:

Patience
Confidence
Asking for help
Being a kind friend