Get Schooled with These Basics

Whether your child is heading to off to college as a freshman or their first year of elementary school, preparing for back to school means more than just number two pencils and notebooks. In addition to the basics, kids heading back to school this year have a dizzying assortment of needs, resources and products available to choose from. For parents who may feel overwhelmed at the prospect of what their kids need.

According to a recent survey conducted by the National Center for Families Learning over 25% (27.4%) of respondents admit its tough transitioning the family from summer back into the school year routine. When it comes to school shopping 20.5% of parents point the finger at the numerous expenses—books, clothes, classroom fees and supplies – each school year brings. Parents also admit to experiencing anxiety related to starting a new school year.

“There is a way for parents easy the anxiety by vacationing together reduces stress and it builds that family bond,” said Colleen Burns, parenting expert. “But if you’re visiting a property or a destination you have not been to before it is always good to check online reviews. I like booking.com because you have access to more than 160 million verified online reviews from people who have actually used the site and there are more than one million unique properties you can visit. There is everything from five star hotels to yachts and even tree-houses.

Packing lunches and making snacks available for kids to keep energized as a part of their daily life especially during the school year. “One in three American children are now either overweight obese which is making it so important as parents to make those smart snack choice,: said Burns. “Keep Nature Valley Biscuit Sandwiches in the pantry. There made of natural whole grain and there is also a creamy almond butter filling that not only tastes good but is a great boost for that extra boost of energy. They come in four flavors. Also in your pantry you should keep milk, shelf milk from Horizon Organic. It is a great alternative for protein especially if your avoiding nut allergies.”

The back to school list grows and so does that receipt. “Seventeen Magazine has come up with its list of the best back to school sales and Staples has one of the best, said Burns. “If you buy a backpack at staples receive 25 percent off all school supplies.” You can also buy online and pick up in one hour. Staples offers price match. If you find your item at a lower price at Staples or Staples.com within 14 days, let them know and they will refund the difference to you.

Colleen’s Tips Include:

• Get away: Try to squeeze in a last-minute family vacation! They are so important not only for reducing stress, but for bonding and making memories
• Meal prep: Preparing lunches and snacks the night before with your children will save time, and gives you the opportunity to send them to school with a well-balanced meal and delicious snack.
• Buy in bulk: You’ll get the best deal on school supplies if you buy in bulk. Try joining forces with other parents and get notebooks, folders, pencils, and glue in bulk at a warehouse store.
• Wait for the bargain: Wait until a week or so after school has started to shop for backpacks or lunchboxes. You'll be able to pick up quality school gear for a fraction of the usual cost!
• Show some love: Many children get anxious at the start of a new school year. Try placing a short note in your children’s backpacks to remind them how much you love and support them.

For more information visit betterstuffforlife.com

About Colleen Burns

Colleen Burns has a psychology degree, a background in childhood educación, and the real-life experience of raising six sons. A former national and local TV journalist. Colleen shares tips on parenting, travel, looking and feeling good. She regularly appears on Lifetime, and the CW network as well as local appearances on network affiliates in NY, San Francisco, Minneapolis, San Diego, Chicago, Miami and more. Colleen is co-author of a new book called "Momarchy: How Moms Rule the World". The book presents a witty, but fact-filled argument for moms' power and influence in the family, workplace and the world. Colleen worked as a repórter, anchor and producer for a national news network, as well as CBS affiliates in Illinois and Minnesota. She also produced the nationally-syndicated Emmy award winning show Smarter Living. Her freelance work includes regular appearances on the Weather Channel and PBS.

Courtesy: Booking.com, Nature Valley, Staples, and Horizon milk

Photo Courtesy: Cpl. Glen Santy CCO 1.0 from Wikimedia co