School paperwork and getting ready for the start of school may seem daunting and, at times, overwhelming. But there is a way to get it all done, and on time!
So Much Paperwork!
Make Folders
If you have more than one child attending the same school system, chances are you will be filling out the same form for each of your kids. If you have a folder with each child’s name on it, you can document the forms you must complete and due date on the inside cover. Once completed, just check it off. This way you won’t be wondering if you completed a form for Mary or was it Jane?! Place the completed forms in the folders until you are ready to turn them in or mail them in.
Schedule Time
The best way to make sure you get it all done is to schedule time to complete the forms! First, sort the paperwork by due date. Look at the forms and see if they require a quick fill in the blank type of answer or detailed information from other sources.
Then schedule out getting the forms completed in your planner at least a week or so before they are due. If you need a babysitter or quiet time to fill out the forms, schedule this in too!
Make an Appointment
When the appointment date is here, sit down in a quiet area (if your house is noisy, a trip to the library with the kids will give you some quiet time) and fill out as much of the form as possible, making notes on areas you did not fill in. If you know which forms require you to pull information from other sources (medical records, vaccination records, birth certificates, income tax files, etc.), then schedule additional time in your planner to pull that information and gather it all before your “fill in the X form” appointment. You can pull this info and pop into your planner or a folder with the form attached with a paperclip. Then when you have your appointment to complete the form, it will be simple for you.
Back to School Prep
Make a Checklist
Make a checklist of your own or check out our free downloadable checklist (see link below) for getting ready for back to school. It will help you get organized in a sane way for that first day of school. It starts a month before school starts and goes up to the first day.
Stock Up on Items and Lunchbox Food
Besides completing a mountain of paperwork, you will need to make sure the kids have adequate clothing, shoes, and supplies. Now is the best time to stock up on supplies for the kids. Schedule these activities in your planner too. And don’t forget food! Make a grocery shopping list for Back to School – you will need food items that can be packed in lunches, easy to make breakfast meals, and snacks for after school and practices. Buy in bulk to get the best deals. You may want to buy a cooler for your car for those items you will need to pack for sports practices and games. This way you won’t be searching on those days, you will know right where to find it! Or better yet, keep it stocked with what you need and just add ice!
You Are Not Alone
And don’t fret – every family goes through this every year. You are not alone. You could even schedule a “form filling out” session with girlfriends, or a shopping for supplies day to make it fun for you!
