Back to School! It evokes thoughts of apples, autumn, falling leaves, and pumpkins, doesn't it? And for many of us in Kentucky, that's exactly what's happening. Well, to be honest, the pumpkins are mainly on display on decorative wreaths at Sam's Club or in lovely Pinterest pins – and autumn is still a good 6 weeks or more away.
Then again, in other parts of the country, where several of my dear ones live, those little ones are out enjoying the sunshine (oops – it was rain this week!) and the park pool for another three weeks before they head back to class.
In Florida, near my dear friend as well as good old Mickey Mouse, school begins in mid-August. Wow! Different dates all around the country that widely diverge!
The point to all this? If you are making a move in the near future with kids (or grandkids who live with you), you need to figure it out FAST and touch base with the possible school districts ASAP! Changing schools is hard enough when done at the beginning of the school year. Changing part way through the school year may be necessary, but if it can be avoided, I suspect you will all be much happier.
Also, it's important to realize that many of the school supplies are already on sale everywhere. But if you are moving from an area with schools that start later to an area where school have already started or will shortly, it might be a good idea to check out the back to school sales fast, stock up on the necessary supplies, pack them into a well marked box, and put that at the top of the pile. Then when you arrive at your new home, it will be easily accessible, already organized, and save you time, energy and money at your new home.
Don't forget to also pack shot records, previous school records, legal documents, and other items necessary for the new school in a WELL-LABELED box and put it with the other box of school items. You don't want to take your kids to their new school, only to find that you CAN'T find the needed documents.
Moving is stressful enough in and of itself. Keeping the stress at bay while preparing your family for their new schools will be a big help to ALL of you. Soooooo, when does YOUR school start this year? 🙂