The first step to preparing for your children's first day of school is to prepare their schedule. If your summer schedule differs from your school year schedule, begin setting your bedtimes and rise times to coincide.

Begin shopping early with the kids when the best deals and selection is available. Be aware some classrooms collect supplies and randomly redistribute so purchasing the most expensive supplies may not end up benefitting your children.

Arrange for a tour of the school with your child so they become familiar with the layout and classrooms before school starts.

Get a copy of the bus route and pickup/dropoff times.

Write a "first day of school" note for your children to include in their lunch.

You may want to get them back in the habit by checking out a great book at the library for them to read before heading back.